This past May, under the guidance of Ondinnok co-founder Catherine Joncas, Claudia Chan Tak, Lucy Fandel, Charo Foo Tai Wei, Kyana Lyne, Heather Mah, Victoria May, Marine Morales-Casaroli and Marie Mougeolle explored ancestral memories in their dancing bodies. Their work was inspired by an approach created by Ondinnok in collaboration with Indigenous artists.
During these exploratory workshops, Catherine acted as an elder and guide. To start, she placed four stones in the space to anchor the project in respect, truth (to oneself and others), non-judgement and a willingness to embrace fear.
The workshops were not filmed or photographed. The participants took with them memories of slowness, introspection, intense focus, fragility and openness. They carried traces of the experience in their bodies, notebook entries and sketches. The adventure was also captured in drawings by artist and illustrator Youloune, who attended the workshops on two occasions.
As a follow-up to the project, to share the experience and transmit the teachings received, we will be launching a web publication this fall featuring excerpts from the participants’ notebooks and Youloune’s drawings. All who took part are keen to continue the workshops, although the form and content have yet to be imagined. Stay tuned!