Reciprocal Relationship Building as a Way of Resistance and Resiliency

Abstract

Capitalistic, individualistic and colonial society has caused great disconnects between the people and the land. Today, many people view the earth as a given, as something that can be freely bought, sold, developed and destroyed. With the way that Earth is being treated, it seems that many of us have forgotten-- or ignored-- how to live on this beautiful land with respect, and how to foster reciprocal relationships with it. For hundreds of years before colonizers arrived on the shores of this place, Indigenous communities lived on and with this land, treating it with the same care and love they treat family members. Through this project, I explore the ways in which we can work to re-establish relationships with Earth which are full of gratitude, care and responsibility. How do we re-root amidst this colonial, consumerist world we have enforced upon the land and ourselves? Drawing on Indigenous knowledge and wisdom as well as that of climate scientists and other environmental thinkers, I have created an art piece which centers plants as teachers who guide us by example towards better practice - both for this planet and for each other.