One month from now,
you’ll be just arriving at Rancho Relaxo, re-connecting with old classmates,
co-workers, and friends while meeting new people who are completely on fire about
Permaculture!
In our family, the arts play an important role in our lives. We have a family band (The Garden Variety Rockstars) where each person plays an instrument or sings, and we perform at various events around the community. In fact, we like live outdoor music so much that for the past nine years we have hosted large outdoor concerts every year, and this year we hosted our first live music wedding!
Also, since 'creative expression' is a need according to Maslow, we try to apply an artistic touch to all of the projects we are working on around the farm. Our goal is not just to display ideas, but to inspire more creativity.
In terms of culture, we are making an effort to connect with the local First Nations people. The First Nations could be considered long lost advisors to the sustainability movement, and it turns out that we have a lot of common ground with them, including the need for good food, good company, and a strong connection with the natural world.
Therefore, the theme of this years' Convergence is “Arts & Culture”! The Arts in general are a big part of the Permaculture movement and we want that to be strongly represented at this years’ event.
A local First Nations Elder Theresa Strawberry has agreed to speak at the Opening Ceremony on Friday, blessing the event and sharing some wisdom from a people who understand living off the land. The First Nations like to plan for seven generations in the future, which is a sharp contrast to Western Culture where we plan for seven minutes into the future. Adopting thinking patterns for the longer term is a key element in sustainability. Many native elders use story-telling to convey a message that relates to our connection with the land, as well as a connection with each other. Forming these connections are of the utmost importance in working towards a healthy community and society.
We’ve asked Kym Chi from Giggling Chi Tree to host a small gallery space for artists to display their artwork,
including a space for hanging pieces.
She will also be leading some nature inspired or nature based art activities
as well as giving ideas on how to integrate more art into Permaculture. There will only be room for a few artists’
work to be displayed, therefore this space will be given on a first come, first
serve basis. There will also be time for
artists to connect with other artists and discuss their passion. Check out Kym's new video here.
Have you heard?
Western
Australian permaculture troubadour Charlie Mgee is coming to deliver a
combined electro-swing dance floor set and permaculture song-writing
workshop! Turns out he’s going to be in
the neighbourhood and thought he’d swing by for a few days and see what the Alberta
Permaculture scene looks like.
Check out
Charlie Mgee’s hilarious new music video 'Yield'.
Following Charlie’s set, there will be an open mic for all to get their groove on. Get
your one or two songs ready, bring your instrument, and try rocking out on a real outdoor stage! As the night matures, often the gathering shifts over to the outdoor fire pit. A nice big circle of people has been known to attract acoustic guitars, so keep an eye out.
That's all for now, but we'll have a new post every week to build the energy!
J2
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