Local Conversations

What is a Conversation?

The premise behind an Images & Voices of Hope conversation is that in any situation there are an infinite number of stories that can be told, each with its own set of possibilities and consequences.  The question that faces those of us in media is "how can we write, create or present stories that are the most beneficial for the greatest number of people?"  Learn more

IMAGES & VOICES GATHERING: Novato, CA - by Judy Rodgers

March 28, 2010

MAKING HOPE VISIBLE

We had our first West Coast conversation with a gathering of 30 professionals, artists, journalists and film makers last December. A group of artists and performers decided to meet again in March and focus on just the arts. So, on March 28, 2010, we gathered at the Anubhuti Meditation and Retreat Center in Novato and explored the the subject of "How can my expression make hope visible in the world?"

As artists, we know that the mediums of artistic expression are powerful, moving and inspiring. We know the impact that the arts have on shaping the world we and our children will live in. What draws us together is our belief that the arts – be it the sculpture, dance, theatre, photography, music, painting or violin makingr – can make a difference. Our commitment to explore how that positive potential can be realized – how we can make choices in our work that inspire, motivate, empower, generate constructive meaning, and strengthen human hope and courage to take action, in our communities and in the larger world.

 
Here are some of the things they said:

“The arts rescue us.”

“I still think it comes back to courage. We’re not going to be afraid to look at everything truthfully to understand what our lives are here, at this time.”

“the most poignant moments we spoke about involved death – designing an abortion clinic so it supports those who work there, building a coffin for a friend’s daughter – knowing it would be burned, like a Buddhist sand painting, and going to the funeral of a renowned musician, hearing his music played and feeling that he’s in the room.”

“Arts are very far from entertainment. Arts touch the sublime.”

They will form the core of an expanded group that will come together again in August. We appreciate your interest in this initiative and hope that you will join us and contribute to this conversation. Please email us for the schedule of upcoming gatherings.