Taking Care occurs episodically, in times set aside for intense focus and dedication as I listen to the words of care shared with me for the project.
Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to participate in the Slow symposium at MASS MoCA, in North Adams, MA. Sharing with and learning from scholars and creative thinkers about all manner of slow practices felt like a gift. I presented “Open the Envelope: Epistolary Writing as Slow Scholarship” on a thought-provoking panel about slow interventions in creative practice, where I was inspired by the practices of Anne Labovitz and Megan Johnston.
In addition to the panel, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to install and perform Taking Care in a main hallway of the museum, its first US venue. The autumn leaves and blue sky offered a beautiful backdrop, and symposium attendees were eager to participate. One young woman told me, “I’ve been looking forward to this all day. I’m totally obsessed with this project.” What better feedback can an artist get?
I don’t yet have a plan in place for the project’s next iteration, but I’m looking forward to the possibilities that may arise.