There is a large megaphone. The artist has a question. Is it possible to turn every cell in a chosen direction and if so, what if? What if we all––did?
If the forest is an archive of breath, who keeps things in order? The trees are silent, but not the wind and not what flies and calls between the limbs.
Here is a study in the movement of these bodies answering a call. What does it mean to be here now, together? Meanwhile, trees listen.
***
Inspired by Sioban Burke’s article in the arts section of yesterday’s New York Times (“A Choreographer Who Merges Art, Activism, and the Natural World”) on the work of Emily Johnson. Italicized phrase appears in a recent performance.
Lovely post, Stacey. I couldn’t view the first link in the New York Times as it requires that you register to be a member to be able to view their articles. It’s a shame, as I would have been interested to read more about the work of Emily Johnson. I did manage to read the second link, though. I love the post. I’m passionate about nature, the planet and especially trees. I like the idea of the trees listening, as I do believe they do just that. I have a special tree (it’s a black poplar) near me, along the river. I visit it sometimes. If I could get out of my wheelchair to hug it, I would, as I’m a tree-hugger at heart. I also feel that trees can talk back to us, not in a communication form that humans would recognise instantly, but I feel the vibrations coming back to me when I speak to my tree. I guess it’s more of a feeling than a language. Love to you, dear Stacey. Xx 🌳🌿💚
Thank you, Ellie, for sharing how you know this black poplar. This communication resonates with me. I am especially interested in interspecies conversations. Sending you love!