The Simulator (2025)

For the installation ‘The Simulator’, the room of Father John was recreated—a 82-year-old man from Wombwell (Sheffield) whom Thomas Nolf met during the project. He was once a military pilot and later became a priest in the U.S. During his retirement, he decided to fly again—not in the air, but in a self-built Boeing cockpit, in the room where he grew up as a child. Due to health reasons, he decided to give his simulator away to an Italian friend. On its way to Italy, this simulator makes a stopover in Waregem. Before the simulator was packed up for transport, Nolf made one last flight together with Father Dane. This flight can be seen on the simulator’s screens, accompanied by the conversation they had during this flight, heard through the headphones. As the visitors immerse themselves in the experience, the dialogue between Father John and Father Dane comes to life in the space, creating a deep connection between them. In their conversations, they find each other in their quest for adventure and liberation.