Reflecting.
Reflecting on our Expectations and the New Year ahead. Kilfinan Community Forest. Indigenous Photographers Exhibition, COP15.
Branscombe at Dusk, 2022
Stepping into the new year.
We have so many expectations of ourselves, and from others as we move into the new year. Endeavour not to pile these expectations to high. Take quite well intentioned steps forward, be mindful, stay compassionate and support others, its amazing what can come out of those spaces. Embrace this beautiful new year, its seasons, those rhythmic cycles are here for a reason. There will be ups and downs, though there is learning to be had throughout these moments. Remain thoughtful as you take those steps forward in furthering yourself, though do pursue them, and enjoy the journey that lies ahead.
Below are some of the ups I experienced towards the tail end of last year, made all the more memorable whilst collaborating and working alongside others.
Kilfinan Community Forest
This is a story I previously covered of Kilfinan Community Forest, it was thoughtfully published in Wunderdog Magazine last month. A project close to me heart, of repeopling the land, of community, where I felt a sense of kinship with many of those who resided here. Above are selection of layouts from the recent publication.
Nestled alongside the coastal village of Tighnabruaich, Kilfinan Community Forest is working to transition a monoculture plantation back to biodiverse native woodland while also bringing people more actively into this landscape.
“I am struck by the lack of variety of wildlife – even at the level of insects and birds. I’m probably more motivated now than when I started here three years ago to create a woodland and, for the most part, to let it be – that creation of habitat for wildlife is so important.” - Craig Ward, Woodland Crofter, Kilfinan.
This project was photographed and written by myself, and you can delve deeper into the story through purchasing the magazine or alternatively my site further contextualises this work as well.
COP15, Montreal
The indigenous led organisation If Not Us Then Who? showed up at many global events throughout 2022, supporting indigenous youth and leadership on the global stage. My role within this non profit has me predominantly working alongside many wonderful young indigenous artists. Mentoring and supporting them with their photographic practices.
At COP15 in Montreal I curated an exhibition titled “We are but one thread” which was hung at the PHI Centre within the If Not Us Then Who? event space - Our Village. A curated sequence of images and texts that permeated conversations around family, community, the forest, and the adjoining river systems which are found on indigenous ancestral lands. The biodiversity prevalent in these settings, and the interconnectedness that exists between all species in these biological spheres.
I worked with two inspiring young artists whom If Not Us Then Who? has worked closely with over many years. Eli Virkina, Ecuadorian Amazon and Kynan Tegar, Borneo.
Below is a selection of work exhibited from these two wonderful artists.
Eli Virkina, from the series, The Forest and my Family.
Kynan Tegar, from the series, The River and our Community.
Thich Nhat Hanh
Finally I wanted to share with you this thoughtful poem that I have in a prominent spot as I begin each day, perhaps these words will carry some meaning for you as well, as you begin the new year. They were written by Thich Nhat Hanh, a Vietnamese Thiền Buddhist monk, peace activist, prolific author, poet and teacher.
Waking up this morning, I smile. Twenty four new hours are before me. I vow to live fully in each moment, and to look at all beings with eyes of compassion. - Thich Nhat Hanh.
Thank you for subscribing, continuing to support my practice and supporting those I work alongside. Have a wonderful start to the year, and I hope to catch up or collaborate with you soon.
Reflecting.
Wonderful, Joel. You are doing important work. Thanks for doing what you do!