Oika for Artists

There are a growing number of us who suspect that the deep intelligence of nature holds the wisdom we need to move through our time of systemic dysfunction and necessary adaptation. Oika is a philosophy that recouples this ecological intelligence of nature to culture through the insights of science and the creativity of artists. Oika for Artists calls upon artists who sense this deep intelligence to imagine a better future and lead the way.  

Join Dr. Rich Blundell and collaborating artist Rita Leduc for an exciting dive into Oika for Artists. 

In this course we merge scientific concepts with artists’ lived-experience in nature to strengthen creativity and amplify cultural impact. By positioning contemporary, holistic, scientific understandings adjacent to creative engagement with the outside world, individualized creative practices are supported, enhanced, and empowered.

This course is for self-identifying adult creatives of any discipline. The format includes viewing and discussing short films, online conversation, and individual practices. 

WORKSHOP PROGRESSION

Week One: 

Who are you? How did light become you? 

What is the purpose of your artwork? What does the physics of the early universe tell us about the interconnectivity of all things? 

Week Two: 

Where are you? How did humans join the family of galactic phenomena?

How are you connected to your place? What celestial features surround you?

Week Three: 

A special planet emerges. What is your creative practice? 

How does life and intelligence flourish here? 

How is your practice connected to who and where you are? 

Week Four: 

What does it mean to be prosperous? What does it mean to be an Earthling?

How does who, where, and how you are relate to your creative prosperity?

How do Earthlings hold within them the creativity and prosperity of all humanity?  

What can we do with it?

Optional engagement:

• A weekly “studio hour” for in-depth conversation on individual artwork and practices. Time TBD