Just Keep Going - Polyphony. Gentle Activism for Collective Survival

Abstract

This portfolio examines the possibility of my project ‘Just Keep Going’ series to nurture resilience for those experiencing uncanniness during periods of change and re-organization in the aftermath of extreme experiences. Experiences in an action-oriented non-verbal polyphony environment that prioritizes the uniqueness of a holistic self while accepting the existence of diverse individuals who are participating in collective survival could foster that resilience. My practice-led research aims to explore an expanded application of my Ikebana practice to my public Spatial Neural-Architectures while exploring a new way of understanding security, survival, and wellbeing. My research informs my art practice that includes the practices arising out of my life experience as a transnational voluntary evacuee to Australia from the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster in Japan. My portfolio shows the transformation of my artwork and my everyday life. I investigate how my art practice could offer a therapeutic experience as well as a new cultural framework by examining the methods of Open Dialogue, the Biophilia Hypothesis, Ikebana Philosophy, and Sand-play Therapy. These methods open up new possibilities for a socially engaged practice that addresses collective traumas in the midst/aftermath of global crisis and the social changes necessary for collective survival.