Celine Shein Das – Dance & Climate Change Art
Art Heals All Wounds
09/18/24
•52m
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Celine Shein Das uses classical dance to raise awareness and inspire action on climate change.
In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I talk with Celine Shein Das, Executive Director of the Chitresh Das Institute. We talk about the transformative power of art through the lens of the Kathak dance performance 'Invoking the River,' a multimedia production that draws attention to climate change and the human relationship with water. Celine shares insights on the origins and evolution of Kathak dance, the profound storytelling it enables, and the collaborative efforts behind this performance. The episode also highlights the institute's commitment to art for the planet and the impact of the performance of Invoking the River, both in the United States and India. Celine encourages us all to explore our relationships with art and the planet while reflecting on the powerful messages conveyed through this unique performance.
00:00 Introduction: Can Art Change the World?
01:57 Meet Celine Shein Das and Chitresh Das Dance
02:40 Exploring Kathak Dance and 'Invoking the River'
05:36 The Artistic Vision Behind 'Invoking the River'
10:10 The Legacy of Pandit Chitresh Das
33:08 Impact and Reception of 'Invoking the River'
45:35 Future Performances and Final Thoughts
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Previous Episode
We Loved It All: Lydia Millet – Climate Action Storytelling
September 4, 2024
•37m
Lydia Millet explores how writing and storytelling can drive environmental awareness and creative activism.
In this episode of 'Art Heals All Wounds,' I have the pleasure of speaking with the author, Lydia Millet. Lydia’s latest book 'We Loved It All: A Memory of Life' explores themes of interconnectedness, extinction, and climate change. She shares insights into her writing process and the challenges of addressing such monumental issues through storytelling. The conversation also delves into the cultural narratives that have led to environmental degradation and the potential of new, inclusive stories that could inspire change. Lydia’s work is a reminder of the importance of love and protection for all beings as essential components in the fight against mass extinction and climate catastrophe.
00:00 Introduction to Art Heals All Wounds
00:44 The Extinction Crisis
02:16 Interview with Lydia Millet
05:15 Lydia Millet on Writing and Climate Change
11:56 The Role of Stories in Shaping Our World
30:01 The Importance of Love and Protection
35:02 Conclusion and Call to Action
Don't forget to go to my website and leave me YOUR story of belonging to feature on a future episode!Buy Me a Coffee!Follow Lydia!
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Next Episode
Jimmy Ramirez – Environmental Art & Waterway Restoration
October 2, 2024
•36m
Jimmy Ramirez shares how art supports waterway restoration, climate grief, and community resilience.
In this episode of Art Heals All Wounds, I sit down with Jimmy Ramirez, an artist and high school teacher from Oakley, California. We talk about Jimmy’s film Above Ground, which delves into the ways that streams and creeks in Oakland have been ‘entombed’ in culverts in Oakland, California. We also discuss re-imagining our relationship to water.
**Key Topics Discussed:**
1. **Discovery of Hidden Waterways**:
My personal experience.
2. **Jimmy's Film "Above Ground"**: The film explores how Oakland has buried many of its natural waterways under concrete, a practice known as "entombing." This impacts local ecosystems previously supporting species like salmon and trout.
3. **Personal Connection to Peralta Creek**:
Jimmy discusses his family's history with Peralta Creek in Fruitvale, Oakland, emphasizing how urban development has drastically altered the waterway.
4. **Impact of Water Management Practices**:
Water management practices designed to prevent flooding have dried out natural water bodies despite heavy rainfalls, disrupting ecological balance.
5. **Historical Decisions and Urban Planning**:
The conversation addresses the historical decisions to bury natural waterways and how early urban planning overlooked long-term environmental impacts.
6. **Environmental and Mental Health Implications**:
We discuss the concept of "slow violence" where the lack of natural elements in urban areas contributes to mental health issues and community stress.
7. **Neighborhood Disparities**:
Disparities between wealthier neighborhoods with more greenery and lower-income areas in Oakland are highlighted, showing the uneven distribution of environmental resources.
8. **Community Initiatives and Successes**:
Some residents have successfully removed culverts to restore natural water flow, though legal ambiguities persist.
9. **Government and Political Dynamics**:
Oakland officials have shown interest in Jimmy’s film to raise awareness about these environmental issues, and the conversation touches on the politicized nature of water management in California.
10. **Reimagining Water Use**:
Jimmy advocates for a collectivist approach to water systems, inspired by indigenous wisdom, contrasting America's individualistic mindset.
11. **Challenges and Resistance**:
Addressing restrictive regulations around rainwater collection and gray water reuse, and how contractors are now more conscious about concreting over backyards.
12. **Future Projects and Art's Role**:
Jimmy discusses future projects and the significance of art in processing climate grief and inspiring change. He also expresses gratitude for support from the California Arts Council.
Don't forget to go to my website and leave me YOUR story of belonging to feature on a future episode!Buy Me a Coffee!Follow Jimmy!
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