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Architectural Roots and Sacred Geometry: The Art & Soul of Design

As a teen, I remember my father working intently into the early hours. He was completing architectural designs for clients. Sometimes, I would often leaf through his subscriptions of โ€œArchitectural Digestโ€, admiring the contemporary designs of certain buildings. How they were able to integrate a man-made structure into the natural environment around them, it took my breath away. One example of this is Frank Lloyd Wrightโ€™s โ€œFalling Waterโ€ home design. In 2019, UNESCO listed the structure as a World Heritage Site due to its global significance. In my world, structural design and buildings have become part of my DNA. Now, I realize how valid a statement that actually is.

Falling Water Photo by Diane M. Lilly, 2013

INTERVIEW with ARI LAZER

The Geometry of Life

Recently, I started exploring the topic of sacred geometry in relation to architecture. Due, in part, to an upcoming interview in February with Ari Lazer, an interdisciplinary artist and educator. As a designer, it was his focus “to give people spaces where they can feel the world around them.” In his “about page” video, Ari mentions that scientists, in 2003, discovered that the universe resembles a “Dodecahedron”. A dodecahedron is one of many known sacred geometric shapes. Therefore, I desired to learn more about how sacred geometry integrates into the architectural design process. What is Sacred Geometry, though?

Self Portrait Courtesy of Ari Lazer

Sacred Geometry is the idea that all of life and the universe is based on certain foundational forms and structures. These structures promote symmetry, harmony, meditative, and energetic flow. So, it is understood that in the macro and micro levels of our existence, all the geometric forms are echoed.

Sacred Geometric Symbols.

RESOURCE: https://www.wikihow.com/Sacred-Geometry-Symbols

Above the Vesica Piscis, Egg of Life, Seed of Life and Flower of Life all symbolize creation. These 4 geometric forms represent expansion and growth in the universe. Plus, they embody the creation of life itself. For example, the Egg of Life shape is found in the mitosis of cell division. Additionally, the Flower of Life is an expansion of all of the previous forms. This geometric form contains the secrets of the Universe. These forms are evident in a variety of cultures around the world from ancient times.

Meanwhile, the Sri Yantra is a Hindu symbol that holds 9 interlocking triangles that form 43 smaller ones. This complex shape represents the cosmos and the entire universe. It symbolizes the unity of masculine and feminine energies. Plus, it is used in meditation and rituals to promote prosperity, peace, and harmony.

The Torus or Toroid, symbolizes the flow of energy, infinity and the cycle of life throughout the universe. For example, galaxy clusters (also known as cosmic donuts), certain cloud formations, tornadoes, and whirlpools are torus structures.

Finally, the last one we will look at is the Golden Spiral. It is the visual representation of the Fibonacci Sequence or Golden Mean. This mathematical formula is one of many used in architecture and technology. This shape can be found in flower petals, pine cones, tree branches, and seashells. More thorough information is discussed in the resources below.

Building on an Ancient and Universal Foundation

Now, let’s dig into architectural design specifically. What are the current principles of building design? Here are summaries of the Core Design Approaches and Methodologies for Architecture in lay terms:

  • 1. Site-Inspired Design – “Thinking of the neighborhood.” This principle considers the surrounding environment when approaching design.
  • 2. Parametric/Algorithmic Design –“Building with code.” The architect uses computer software to set “rules” (like: make the windows bigger where the sun hits hardest).
  • 3. Biophilic Design – “Bringing the outside in.” The goal is to make people feel happier by connecting them to nature.
  • 4. Research-Driven Design –“Considering the facts.” Before drawing anything, the architect looks at data. They study how people walk through a room, how light affects mood, or how many people will use the lobby.
  • 5. Form Finding & Geometry – “Playing with shapes.”This is about finding the best structure using math and shapes. The architect experiments with circles (radial). They also try curvilinear (curved) and rectilinear (straight-line) grids.
  • 6. Conceptual/Symbolic Methods –“Constructing founded in story.” The design is based on a big idea or a metaphor. The “meaning” of the building is just as important as the building itself.

Summary

After reviewing these methodologies, I decided to do an analysis of a well-known sacred geometric building, the Egyptian Pyramids. Of course, the Parametric/Algorithmic Design Principle probably won’t follow the rules. Nonetheless, it is important to remember that the Golden Mean and mathematics have been used throughout history. These are both the foundations of current technology. As well, the following video is an interesting discussion on Geometry and Architecture. The narrator is a professor from the University of Illinois in Chicago.

GEOMETRY and ARCHITECTURE explained by Stewart Hicks

Comparatively Speaking

When I compared the architectural principles of the Egyptian Pyramids, I used Gemini, Googleโ€™s AI engine. It helped me summarize this analysis, and the results are in the table below.

MethodApplied?Evidence
Site-InspiredYesAlignment with cardinal points and bedrock selection.
ParametricNoLacked digital technology (though used math ratios).
BiophilicPartialUse of natural stone and creation myths.
Research – DrivenYesBuilders evolved their info from Step Pyramids to “True” Pyramids.
Form/GeometryYesMastery of the square base and the Golden Ratio.
ConceptualYesDesign served as a literal “stairway to heaven.”

Sacred Design in Modern Architecture

Now, I decided to review a modern architectural example. Do current architects still consider sacred geometry in their designs? Geometric diagrams, both sacred and secular, look at the principles of unity, duality, polarity, equilibrium, and proportion. This is what creates symmetry and flow within the designs. What makes sacred geometric designs different is the qualitative ideals from my point of view. When considering sacred geometry, some primary concerns are the energy and movement. We’ll explore the Guggenheim Museum as an example.

In my twenties, I made my first trip to New York. During my art studies, this stop was the first on my list. Also, it was my first NYC (New York City) architectural image taken as an amateur photographer. To me, it is the perfect example of architectural design using sacred geometry.

The Commission

Frank Lloyd Wright was 76 years old when he was commissioned by Solomon R. Guggenheim and his art advisor, Hilla Rebay. The project took 16 years from the beginning to its opening day in 1959. During that time, Guggenheim himself passed away six years after the commencement. Then Wright passed away 6 months before the opening. Symbolically, it likened itself to Mozartโ€™s Requiem in D minor for Wright. Like Amadeus, Wright wouldn’t live to see its completion; similarly, he wouldn’t allow any shortcuts or compromises.

Like the harmonic collaboration between the masculine and the feminine mentioned in the Sri Yanta, so too was this project. After Solomon’s passing, the project’s momentum relied on Rebay and Wright himself. โ€œThey envisioned a โ€œtemple of the spirit,โ€ a place where modern, non-objective art could be experienced in a wholly new way.โ€ Wright’s ongoing commitment to organic architectural practices was unyielding to the end.

The Structure

Being site-inspired, the Guggenheim was placed alongside one of Manhattanโ€™s other landmarks, Central Park. This was intentional as Wright wanted the building to capture the intrinsic emotional flow from nature into the building. Another unique design consideration is its reference to an โ€œinverted Zigguratโ€. A Ziggurat is a stepped pyramid, tapering upwards.

Seeing the spiral design both inside and out brings one’s attention directly to Sacred Geometry’s Golden Spiral. Even though the construction isn’t true to the Sacred Spiral, its flow is. The energy and lines flow smoothly both inside and out. For instance, the interior space is much like a ribbon wrapping itself downwards. Meanwhile, the concrete wall facades spin around a central courtyard. Upon entering the rotunda, the purveyors would take an elevator up to the top floor, then slowly meander downwards. The open corridors featured artworks that would be viewed while ascending down the walkway.

Looking upwards, a large oculus (round window) provided natural light into the building. This particular window feature echoed ancient architecture reminiscent of the Pantheon. As well, the Conceptual and Biophilic choice in design shifted the light and shadow, linking the interior to the sky. Wright intentionally used it for practical and symbolic reasons. Rebay, herself, desired that the museum encapsulate the spiritual energy of the cosmos, coinciding with Wright’s decisions.

Always Original. Always Iconic. Always Guggenheim. Courtesy of the Guggenheim Museum Channel

A Modern Monument of Vision

Over its lifetime, the building has had its share of controversy and challenges. Because of its unique structural design and materials became one reason for its sixteen-year construction delays. Even after its opening, the Guggenheim met resistance from artists based on its internal design for their art pieces. However, the building has become one of Americaโ€™s most recognized architectural designs. Furthering the development of complementary structures in Bilbao, Venice, and Abu Dhabi.

Guggenheim in Bilbao, Spain

CONCLUSIONS

Whether we look at the Egyptian Pyramids, the Pantheon, or the Solomon Guggenheim Museum, these structures invite reverence. It is no surprise that many of the commonalities they hold have some parallels with Sacred Geometry. Their energy, flow, sometimes structural, and architectural design have become otherworldly.

RESOURCES:

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Influencers for Change: Spiritual and Soul Growth

2025 has been a year of change. Finding steadiness and predictability has been rare. However, it was also a good reason to reconsider what our inner world is doing. Most healers, counselors, and spiritual guides will remind us that our inner, deep self is constant. When things are tumultuous, it will guide you.

Focusing on my inner growth and my spiritual growth has been one of the main motivators for me this year. It has been about coming into alignment with my soul and its purpose. SeeChangemakers was always one of these. I guess I was intuitively working on this idea before I realized it.

Heart and Mind Image Collage by Theresa K. Howell

Oneโ€™s Soul Purpose

Interestingly, I have found a real rhythm this year for this publication and its format. Readers and viewers will still see further changes. But, right now, I feel like one of those newbies who has finally found their groove. Remember when you stopped worrying about coasting on your bike? Or when you no longer second-guess your mirror shoulder check before changing lanes? Feeling that stride is so rewarding.

Another rhythmic focal point for this publication has been its concentration on the Arts. For 2025, our first interview began with Tentacle Tribe, a bilingual dance company out of Montreal. By the way, a focus on bilingual pieces will follow this theme into the New Year. Meanwhile, other artists have discussed their healing modalities. These include David Bindi Hudson and the healing properties of the Digeridoo. Then, there was Danielle Diamond and her Costume Therapy. Finally, in November, the writing and art therapy of Kimberly Hetherington was invaluable. Therefore, it seems appropriate to conclude the year by exploring this topic.

Beginnings

On January 1st, 2025, SeeChangemakers wrote about โ€œFuture Influencersโ€ with a feature on โ€œLet Them Theoryโ€ guru, Mel Robbins. She was the perfect person to ground us into the following year. What better way to jump into 2025, the year of change?!

Image Courtesy of Mel Robbins Facebook page

She was this publication’s forbearer to the category of Healing Influencers. To stay aligned with self-growth and Influencers, this post will center around healers who are of non-celebrity status. Aligning itself to this yearโ€™s rhythm, “where we began, we will end.” Here are my top 6 picks for Influencers that asked us to look deep into ourselves.

SeeChangemakers “Top 6 Healing Influencers“

Spiritual Influencers

@CBMeditates (Chandresh Bhardwaj) – is a seventh-generation lineage holder from a family of Indian gurus practicing the Tantric tradition. He conducts talks all over the globe in countries including Sweden, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Belgium, Canada, and the US. He started his Cosmic Circle Community to support his teachings. His posts are often given in paged prose, which starts with a titled image accompanied by music. The readings are succinct, profound, and thought-provoking.

Screenshot Images from Instagram

@Rewildingforwomen (Sabrina Lynn) is the creator of the “ReWilding Way,” focusing on inner healing, archetypes, and awakening the feminine. She hosts retreats, podcasts, and workshops WEBSITE: https://rewildingforwomen.com/  Her main objective is to help people reclaim their “soul light.” She aims to guide people to step into a more empowered self. This is accomplished through archetype identification and astrological placements. She is raw and endearing, all wrapped into one.

Relational Therapists and Counselors

@the_outdoor_therapist (Zak Hazlett) – a licensed marriage and family therapist who shares many insights on how to build yourself up and the relationships around you. He comes from Moab, Utah, where he was born and raised. Growing up alongside the Colorado River, he developed a deep connection to nature, nurtured by the river and local guides. In addition to his podcasts, Instagram posts, and social media presence, he hosts summer group excursions along the Colorado River.

Screenshot Images from Instagram

@Realtalkry (Ryan MacEwen) โ€“ A Canadian originating from Charlottetown, PEI. He studied for his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Back in 2020, he began his journey as a digital creator on TikTok. He now offers one-on-one discussions through  https://stan.store/realtalkry. Additionally, his YouTube channel currently has 3.77 k followers, with his commentary reading: “Forget surface-level advice.” Let’s talk about what you’re really feeling. From my experience to yours. Real talk. Deep thought. Lived and shared experiences.

Motivational Thinkers and Self-Help Guides

@the_gratitude_mind (Shannon Shallcross) โ€“ a tech entrepreneur uses her knowledge and personal experience to help others. She emphasizes that mental limitations are the only barrier. They are the hurdle between the life of routine and the life of our dreams. She discovered a powerful tool that profoundly impacted her life: the Gratitude Mindset. Now, she is a public speaker who relates her thoughts on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. Here is her  LINKtree

Screenshots from Instagram

@wesaiditanyway โ€“ (Hamza Zaid) – “We Said It Anyway” is a podcast hosted by content creator and speaker Hamza Zaid. His soundbites focus on navigating modern relationships. They emphasize emotional intelligence and self-growth. Often, there are clips and discussions on how “emotionally intelligent partners” navigate complex interpersonal dynamics. Hamza pulls no punches but really addresses the issues head-on.

Happy 2026, everyone. I am so excited to see what is in store for us all. Please stay tuned for our upcoming January Paris Interview.

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Joyeux Noรซl et Bonne Annรฉe from Paris with Love

In late November, I was scrolling down my social media feed. Suddenly, I was drawn in by a glimpse of the Christmas Tree at the Galeries Lafayette in Paris. I became enthralled with the romantic and exquisite combination of holiday colours and glittering grandeur. It hypnotized me and drew me in like a late-night ad for the latest kitchen gadget. Suddenly, I was making plans to fly across the globe to see this example of โ€œhaute sociรฉtรฉโ€ Christmas dรฉcor.

@Galerieslafayette December 2025 Image by Theresa K. Howell

INTERVIEW with PARISIAN Businesswoman, SOPHIE VU; Audio Translations en Francaise

Bonne Idรฉe ? Good Idea?

Okay, I know this sounds irrational, but this year has been one of immense changes. In 2025, I began in Paris, so I decided it would end in Paris. Both instances involved friends whom I had made in 2024. I was ecstatic about going back and celebrating this time of year with them. Like past trips, this excursion was filled with communications and connections. Unlike past trips, my French language learning has surpassed the previous voyage, and I was also branching out, meeting artists who would soon become part of this Vlog.

Vieux Amis, Nouveaux Amis; Old friends, New Friends

My first meetup was with my musician friend, Richard Poher, who recently released his premier solo album last May. I interviewed him following this release. Check that out here. It was wonderful to find out he was that much closer to completion of his masterโ€™s in music education (pedagogy). He has been busy traversing between musical events and his studies. His dedication to his art is immense, and it was fantastic to see his smiling face again.

The following day, I met up with another friend to celebrate her belated 40th birthday. So, to complete the evening, we went to watch some Jazz at the famous Jazz Club, the 38Riv. We got our tickets early to the sold-out shows for the Robin Mansanti Trio. The Trio features three incredible young musicians: Robin Mansanti, Solรจne Cairoli, and Dexter Goldberg. The lead member, Robin Mansanti is becoming a rising star in the jazz scene which all took place years after moving to the city of light. That night, SeeChangemakers requested a feature interview upon their premiere album release, slated for Spring/Summer 2026. Follow us into the New Year to hear more about them.

Robin Mansanti Trio Image by Theresa K. Howell
Image Courtesy of @RobinMansanti

Noรซl modern; Modern Day Christmas

As that incredible evening turned into daylight, I arrived at the notable Marches de Noel aux Tuileries. This is the Christmas Market at the Tuileries Garden. It felt somewhat reminiscent of Niagara Falls to me. A Christmas carnival of sorts now flanked the landscapes of trees, sculptures, and thousand-year-old buildings. It was quite a sight.

Image by Theresa K. Howell

Before I left Vancouver, I booked two Airbnbs, which seemed quite busy at this time of year. Most North Americans think of touring Paris for Spring or Summer, but winter? However, Europe loves to visit this glistening city and shop alongside the magic. This activity can be compared to North Americans flocking to New York City during Christmas. Shopping for the price-heavy, high-quality gifts, followed by skating against the backdrop of the Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Plaza.

Cadeaux de partout; Gifts Everywhere

While at my Airbnb, I met two dynamic young women from Belarus. They, too, were taking a pre-Christmas vacation within “la ville de Paris”. It was easy to strike up a conversation with Alla Parhimovich and Ilona Tamilian. I learned both were astute businesswomen, even though they didnโ€™t look older than 25. Alla currently has 15 years of photographic and digital creation experience. This fact, coupled with her strength and ability to make connections with others, gave me pause. Meanwhile, Ilona is a master crafts person, creating Western-style hats with a unique flair for the obscure.

While talking with Alla, I asked if she might be interested in doing some European interviews for this publication. She agreed. Although for mutual collaborations, she began by suggesting a photo shoot with her. I agreed. Below are the results. Who was that woman looking back at me?

Photographer @alla_parhimovich

In the end, this last-minute adventure generated many spontaneous meetings. All in all, these new connections created a verve that I had been missing. Thus, I am glad I followed my heart on this wild venture.

Another meeting became our December feature interview. Sophie Vu, a single parent and astute businesswoman, is the owner of a stunning Parisian duplex in the 17th arrondissement. A well-kept, old-world example of Parisian Haussmann architecture. In our next installment, read how this biracial woman managed to carve out a self-managed business career.

INTERVIEW IS NOW UP…

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Upcycled Fashion; Art or Function?

Ever since I was a teenager, I have loved thrifting. During my high school years, I was taught how to sew. So, when I became a parent, my love of thrifting, mixed with my sewing abilities, started my interest in constructing costumes for my daughters. It was exciting to see how thrift store items could be recreated and reshaped into magical costumes for play. Staying with this theme of upcycled fashion, this is the focus for Aprilโ€™s Earth Month installment.

NEW: INTERVIEW with PATTERN NATION’S Cyd Eva

Upcycled Fashions from Beaumont Studios – Images courtesy of Danielle Diamond and Theresa K. Howell

Recently, I met some incredible local artists from Vancouver, BC, who share this same love of upcycling. Of course, I noticed the clothing they are producing was not only utilitarian, but it was art. I also noticed these wearable art pieces found their way into galleries such as Beaumont Studios. Check out Pattern Nations‘ latest contributions featured until April 6th.

Upcycled Fashion in the 20th Century

In 1994, the term โ€œupcyclingโ€ found its way into the North American vocabulary. It referenced the idea of taking old items and giving them a new life. This repurposing involved anything from building materials to art projects. However, this idea is as old as when humankind bridged into existing as homo sapiens.

In the 1970s, we saw how upcycled clothing became fashionable. New jeans became passรฉ, as reinvented patchworked jeans became “all the rage”. The more patterns and variety of reusable fabrics that resembled curtains or other linens, the better. The motivations were based on counterculture and climate activism.

Make, Do and Mend Slogan for fashion found at  www.warhistoryonline.com

Now, letโ€™s harken back to the early 1900s to 1945 during the depression, including the two world wars. Upcycled fashion was common. Economics was the impetus for repurposing in this era. For instance, a main slogan, โ€œMake, Do and Mendโ€, was conceived by the British Ministry in 1943 during World War II. This ad campaign was in support of โ€œa culture of frugality and resourcefulness.โ€

Upcycled Fashion: Back to Beginnings

In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was common for women to hand down silks for repurposing due to the costs of the fabric. During the 18th century, the robe ร  la franรงaise or sack-back dress was born. This dress was full of reusable fabric, and it was one of the primary pieces in most womenโ€™s wardrobes. Many garments would be passed on from generation to generation as high-quality silk fabrics were difficult to find.

Two robes ร  la Franรงaise, front and back views, 1750-75

Finally, it is common knowledge that the earliest humans used furs and plants for clothing. After a day of hunting and foraging, the clanโ€™s people would utilize every part of an animal they caught. These items included skins, bones, and shells. The items would be used to protect and embellish clothing for clanspeople.  

Finding and Making Upcycled Fashion

UpcycleCo follows the creative platform of taking secondhand pieces and recreating them into fashion wear. They are situated in the Fraser Valley, and their โ€œbrand is dedicated to giving new life to secondhand denim and textiles.โ€

Lennon and Lime specializes in kid designs. This company was started when a former hairstylist mother wanted to design fun and unique clothing for her children. Many people began asking where they could find similar items. Recognizing her passion was in creating fun pieces for kids, the brand was born.  

Pattern Nation offers clothing and workshops on how to upcycle. Cyd Eva and Brianna Mend Klassen will host a two-hour creative fashion design workshop at The Slice of Life on Venables. The next workshop will be coming up in May. Click here to find out more.

Other great resources can be found here:

https://www.sustainablejungle.com/upcycled-clothing-brands

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Invictus Games Vancouver 2025

Interview with Lil’wat Medal designer, Levi Nelson

During the opening ceremony, I witnessed beautiful black and yellow designs on center stage. These designs plus the endeavor to showcase the Invictus Games in Vancouver was thanks largely in part to four Coast Salish Nations: the Lilฬ“wat7รบl (Lรญlฬ“wat), xสทmษ™ฮธkสทษ™yฬ“ษ™m (Musqueam), Sแธตwxฬฑ_wรบ7mesh (Squamish) and sษ™lilwษ™taษฌ (Tsleil-Waututh). So, what are these games about? And why was holding it in British Columbia a breakthrough for the games?

VANCOUVER, CANADA – FEBRUARY 8: The parade of nations featuring Team Canada during the opening ceremony of the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025 at BC Place on February 8, 2025 in Vancouver, Canada. (Photo by Derek Cain/Getty Images for Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025)

Invictus Gameโ€™s 10th Anniversary

February 16th, 2025 marks the end of the Invictus Games here in Vancouver. This year celebrates the 10th anniversary of its beginnings. Prince Happy initiated the games shortly after his return from a tour of duty in Afghanistan. In 2013, a visit to the Warrior Games moved him to create something for the service men and women globally. The โ€œFoundation offers a recovery pathway for international wounded, injured, and sick servicemen and women (WIS). We collaborate to provide opportunities for post-traumatic growth: enabling those involved to reclaim their purpose, identity, and future, beyond injury.โ€[1]

[1] https://www.invictusgamesfoundation.org/aims-and-origins

Adria Brochu – Competitor – Team Canada

This year was monumental in many ways. Not only being a decade old but B.C., has been close to the young royalโ€™s heart since he departed from Britain. Vancouver Island was a refuge for Prince Harry and his wife, Megan Markle. They took time away from their duties tumultuous time shortly after marriage. Another monumental move was banding together with four Indigenous communities, whose land the games would take place on. The Invictus Games Committee partnered with the four host nations of Whistler starting in 2023.

The Four Artists

Initially, the Invictus Games Committee made a call for an artist designer but this was revisited. Instead, the committee reframed the artist submission to include all four host nations remembering Canadaโ€™s Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, . As a result, Levi Nelson โ€“ Lilโ€™wat Nation; Olivia George โ€“ Tsleil-Waututh Nation; Mack Paul โ€“ Musqueam Nation; and Ray Natraoro โ€“ Squamish Nation were selected from the submissions in fall 2023. The design team started meeting immediately via Zoom. They started to brainstorm how they would depict the design utilizing Indigenous symbols. They resolved to utilize the symbolism of the paddle as it represented โ€œthe central symbolic figure in which to speak about healing the warrior spirit.โ€ says Levi Nelson in an interview with Adrenalin Magazine.

VANCOUVER, CANADA – JANUARY 23: Invictus Games artists press conference at the VAG on January 23, 2024 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/Invictus Games)

Lilฬ“wat7รบl (Lรญlฬ“wat) Artist and Designer, Levi Nelson

Levi Nelson was raised in the mountainous region of Mount Currie northeast of Whistler. Nelson establishes that the land moves in and out of his artwork much like the waters his great-grandfather used to set traplines on. For Nelsonโ€™s masterโ€™s project from Columbia University, an iteration of fractured strips of cultural symbolism are pieced back together. The influence on these artworks is referenced by his auntieโ€™s discussion about โ€œthe indigenous languages being a shattered mirror that was broken into pieces.โ€ Now through language revitalization, many nations are breathing new life into their hidden languages after โ€œbeing interruptedโ€ says Nelson. As a contemporary artist, Nelson establishes that he pulls from all references both Indigenous and non-Indigenous to tell his stories.

Two-Spirited Medicine Man Named Old Doctor. Acrylic, silkscreen, and collage on canvas, 2020.

Journey to Invictus

Nelson is a passionate and motivated artist. He never expected to be where he is today. But as circumstances can be during an extremely low point in his life, he decided to apply to Emily Carr College of the Arts on a whim. Even though, his portfolio consisted of a few pieces and one being a charcoal drawing on a pizza box, the school saw potential. They were not wrong and during graduation year, he won the prestigious IDEA Art Award.

But he didnโ€™t stop there, soon after he applied to the MFA program at Columbia University in New York. He was accepted. In 2022, he won a mid-career scholarship to assist him in his final project. Nelson has been unstoppable. While at Columbia he heard about the Gondola Gallery Project at Whistler Blackcomb. He applied and won. His painting โ€œREDโ€ can be seen wrapping one of the gondolas there. Inevitably when the call out for artists arose for Invictus, it stood to reason he would apply again. Success!

Skyโ€™s the Limit

Nelson’s design featured on the Gondola at Whistler Blackcomb, was such a proud moment for him and his nation. Where once his people were being hidden away, now, they are being raised to the sky. For this Indigenous artist contributing to the Invictusโ€™ Games main design was just the beginning. He also crafted the medal designs. As well, he was invited to create a painting to bridge the games from Canada to Birmingham, the next host city. The painting resulted from his trip to Birmingham sponsored by Air Canada. The painting titled โ€œJourneyโ€ seems fitting.

So, what new journey can we anticipate seeing for this amazing artist?

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Discovering Tentacle Tribe: A Journey Through Dance

My first exposure to the dance company, Tentacle Tribe, was during their acclaimed performance โ€œPrismโ€. They reconvened at The Cultch after sold-out shows of Ghost in 2020. Once again, they received rave reviews including one by SeeChangeMakers. The dance company has toured globally throughout its over 10 years of existence. The two artistic directors of the company have brought a whole new meaning to street dance. Meanwhile, they are making an impact on the world around them.

Courtesy of TENTACLE TRIBE website Photo: Juan Llaguno

Who is Tentacle Tribe?

20 years ago, Emmanuelle Le Phan and Elon Hรถglund met while working with Cirque du Soleil. The two dancers recognized a mutual love of a contemporary exploration into hip hop and breaking. Each of these artists had an extensive background in dance. This history finally brought them together. Hรถglund had worked with Cirkus Cirkรถr which eventually lead him to Cirque. Meanwhile, Le Phan was working in Rubberband Dance Company, when a Cirque director spotted her. Both worked the Cirque show โ€œLoveโ€ in Las Vegas for two years before returning to Canada.

Upon arrival, they both started working within the Rubberband Dance Company. โ€œLรช Phan and Hรถglund did just one Rubberband Dance show together before going out on their own.โ€[1] In 2012, Tentacle Tribe was born. The new dance company focused on their unique styles of dance influences of techniques seen in hip hop, break, ballet, martial arts, etc. However, they created a contemporary genre all of its own. Le Phan and Hรถglund establish in the Vimeo bio. It was a mission to create work that transcends boundaries separating movement and expressing the embodiment of music beyond techniques.

Where to next?

Not surprisingly, they have achieved great success. Forever growing, this Canadian-Swedish partnership has expanded the company to include a variety of dancers and outside collaborators. With a love of their roots, they are always supporting the expansion of street dance. In a recent collaboration, Le Phan and Victoria Cรดtรฉ Pรฉlรฉja, initiated Corocasse, a Quebec City Street Dance Festival born in 2023.

PRELIMS – The # is 3 VS Charlie/Juliette/Flowcam _CoroCasseBattle2023 Coutesy of TENTACLE TRIBE
Channel

It will be presented again in the summer of 2025. As well, in the Spring of 2025, DIRT will debut. DIRT is a theatrical dance โ€œreflection on our primal connection to the earth, to dirt and the source of all lifeโ€. The Hรถglund steered production will premiere, on April 9th 2025 at Agora de la danse, Montrรฉal.

FULL INTERVIEW in 3 PARTS Featured now in PEOPLE

Theresa K. Howell

[1] https://www.vancouverballetsociety.com/2017/08/kindred-hip-hop-spirits/

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Paris-City of Love; City of Light

On September 25th, 2024, the sky was grey and periodically threatened rain. My good friend made his way to my rental condo in the 19th arrondissement of Paris. He wanted to be there to say โ€œgoodbye.โ€ I was flying back to Canada, somewhat reluctantly. My reluctance was due wholly to the variety of friends I made, mixed with my love for the language and the multitudes of cultures surrounding me daily. 

During my previous trip in April, I decided that the next time I came back, I would explore living in Paris instead of just visiting it. So, I booked a one-way ticket for August 25th, 2024. Interestingly, I hadnโ€™t realized that I would be present for the Paralympic Games. What timing!!

An Unlikely Event

The parade and opening ceremony were set to take place a few days after I landed. I decided to make my way down to central Paris for a chance to witness some of the revelry. To my surprise, they were allowing all visitors and citizens free access to the parade along the boulevard from the Champ Elysees to the Place de la Concorde, where the opening ceremony entertainment would take place. Of course, free access would only be available on big screens. Meanwhile paying customers had seats in the stands for direct access.

The day was perfect; sunny and warm, unlike the previous Opening Olympic ceremonies on July 26th, 2024. Drizzle, sprinkles then full-on, nonstop rainย drenched those ceremonies. However, this didnโ€™t dampen the celebratory mood of all the participants. I recall watching this ceremony on TV and thinking how exceptionally creative and original it was.

Making a Difference

Many aspects of this Paralympic ceremony struck me as unique much like the previous Olympic Ceremony in July. These ceremonies involved unique choreography and music from various artists.

For instance, one of my favorite performances was Lโ€™รฉmouvante by Lucky Love. The dance troupe consisted of diverse physically challenged individuals such as people in wheelchairs, amputees, etc. The main singer, Luc Bruyรจre stage name โ€œLucky Loveโ€, a former cabaret singer, dancer, drag artist, and musician, is also an amputee. The performance lasted almost 5 minutes, and it was another exquisite production like the performances witnessed in the previous month.

Lโ€™รฉmouvante by Lucky Love Publisher France TV September 2024

For me, the ceremonies truly echoed the atmosphere I fell in love with on my first trip to Paris. One which supports the day-to-day practice of inclusivity, diversity, tolerance, and respect for all. By the end of the evening, I felt warm and fulfilled for having been part of the experience.

Image by Theresa K. Howell
Image by Theresa K. Howell

Final Words

The Paris Olympic and Paralympic opening ceremonies showed a world of possibilities in how we can perceive sport, art, culture, diversity, inclusivity, respect, and a love of life. This is why they are in the category of โ€œChangemakerโ€ for us in 2024.  

 In the next installment, we will feature another artist, Richard Poher. He is a French Jazz musician who uses two diverse and distinct instruments: the piano and the digeridoo. With his upcoming debut album, we will talk about his career and instrumental choices. You will discover why he is a changemaker in his field.

Richard Poher performing Zalem YouTube Published in October 2023
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EARTH WEEK 2024 – Transportation Around France

Get ready for Franceโ€™s upcoming international activities! No, Iโ€™m not talking about the Olympics. However, the Paris, France 2024 Olympics is monumental. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the last time they held the Olympics. This event and their proactive stance on climate action could explain the recent national and transnational transportation infrastructure investments.

France National Assembly Building displaying Olympic figures

Eye-Opening Moments

During this yearโ€™s Earth Week, I want to discuss revelations from my recent Spring trip to Paris, France. This revelation involves France’s focus on transportation. This was my first trip to France, and I naively brought my North American lens of transportation with me. With this, I booked a car for a planned road trip during my vacation. This experience was eye-opening. I soon learned that the electric car I booked was probably not the best choice. The FIAT 500e can travel 240km before needing to be charged. New to this country, the rental agent recommended the same Fiat 500 in the hybrid model. I complied. Well, this wasnโ€™t the first lesson about driving in France.

My first experience, regarding traffic, was when I took an Uber which was cheap and handy from Malakoff to Paris 3 days after my arrival. I got a quick education on Paris traffic that day from the backseat of the Uber. My driver weaved through various streets at noon to avoid huge traffic backups. I observed his mastery at avoiding cars and motorcycles weaving close beside us to gain their respective spot in traffic.

I asked him how he manages his sanity driving in this chaos as a retired citizen. He responded, โ€œI do meditation, every day.โ€ I said, โ€œI can understand how that would help with this type of traffic.โ€  The traffic is “by no means” synchronized with only lion-hearted individuals taking on this challenge.

Transportation in Paris

I am painting this picture to establish the foundation of why Parisโ€™s public transit system is not only essential but well used. I was already using the Metro from Malakoff, a district outside of Paris Central. However, I never realized how essential the metro is to Paris and the outlying districts until a quarterway through my trip. โ€œIt is the second busiest metro system in Europe, also it’s the tenth busiest in the world. It carried 1.498 billion passengers in 2019, roughlyย 4.1 millionย passengers a day. This makes it the most used public transport system in Paris.โ€ It also transports at least 63% of Parisians daily in opposition to the 11% using vehicles for their commute.

Metro public transportation station entrance in Paris

Transportation around France

Now, let me get back to my road trip. Fortunately, I booked my car from the airport allowing me to avoid that city traffic I mentioned. Once on the road, I paid various tolls that are on most routes. The tolls can cost upwards of twenty euros. This was even different from my experiences in American where tolls are often a few dollars at most.

I soon realized, that if I decided to take the fastest and most direct route, it would require more time than using the trains running regularly between cities and townships around France. For example, my first stop was to Metz, France on my journey. So, I mapped it using Google. By car, the trip took me 3 hours and 20 minutes.  By train, the trip would only have taken me 1 hour and 30 minutes. So, in the end, I could have passively sat and enjoyed a scenic countryside view instead I drove a mundane thoroughfare to my first destination that day.

Roadtrip back from Colmar riding the transportation freeway

It is important to mention that one reason for driving was to give me the freedom to explore the countryside. Another educational moment was driving these freeways, I realized there were very few cars, and most users were semi trucks hauling goods. โ€œThe transport (national and international) of goods in France is dominated by road transport, with more than two billion goods transported each year. Road transport of goods is above all practical.โ€ ย Unlike North America, they use their rail to move people not goods.

Environmental Advantages

I also noticed how clean and lush the environment was around me. This climate and landscape are like my home province of British Columbia, but it seemed fresher somehow. I saw fields upon fields of vegetation from the yellow rapeseed, used in biofuels, and cereal crops plus varieties of deciduous trees. In contrast, BC conifers intertwine themselves with sprinklings of deciduous trees. BCโ€™s conifer stands are seasonally under attack from climate change forces such as hotter seasons, pests, and wildfires.

Lush varieties of vegetation along the drive back to Paris

So, France is sustaining itself even amidst our changing climates. I suspect their approach to community transportation gives them an advantage as well. As observed, few people drive from city to city instead they use commuter trains and public transit in the major centres. Currently, Europe is discouraging short-range air travel with policies and extra fees to incentivize rail travel instead.

Investment in community and cross-country transport is a priority for France and Europe. Currently, there is a multibillion-dollar project for a transnational commuter train from France to Italy. Additionally, there are steep investments into broadening existing routes nationally and Germany. These extensions are bringing more commuter trains, both rapid and slow, across the country plus using subsidized costs to get people to board trains.

From my trip around France which included Paris, Malakoff, Metz, and Colmar, I learned so much about how a small country is doing huge things about moving people around conveniently and cheaply. France is another shining example of how to approach transportation in a cleaner climate-friendly manner.

By Theresa K. Howell

2024 is my first post since the last updates in SPRING 2022 PART I & PART II. This is my monumental moment. ๐Ÿ™‚

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2022 Updates: PART II- Ocean Wiseโ€™s Youth to Sea Leadership Program

Ocean Wise’s Youth Programs Image courtesy of Ocean Wise

To acknowledge our time in this virtual space, SeeChangeMakers pulled together various updates on previous interviews of people and organizations from the last 2 years. To acknowledge the importance of EARTH DAY, these interview updates will be spread over the week from the 18th to the 23rd.

 Ocean Wise has been a hallmark here on the West Coast of Canada for decades. As SeeChangeMakers 2021 article pointed out, the Vancouver Aquarium was Ocean Wiseโ€™s birthplace. Through the pandemic, a variety of changes occurred. Currently, the organization has flowed with the current change by streamlining its rebranding. One of their recent directives is called Waves of Change and it shares a philosophy that โ€œbringing together and empowering youth turns the tide on climate change where many ripples make a wave.โ€

RECAP

In April 2021, I interviewed Michelle Bienkowski, Facilitator & Program Leader for the Ocean Wiseโ€™s Youth to Sea Leadership Program. This was a real eyeopener on how Ocean Wise is creating feasible avenues to engage the public. Taken from last yearโ€™s post, I mentioned that โ€œYouth is the central tennet for their key initiatives. This has been one of the reasons for the rapid growth of the Youth to Sea Leadership Program since its inception in 2019.โ€ While many projects have been led by these 15โ€“18-year-olds, no task is too small. Bienkowski said the main criterion for all projects is that they are initiated and led by the youth. Program Leaders are facilitators only. Hearing about the variety of creative projects and ideas establishes how reliable Ocean Wiseโ€™s current mandate is.

Impacts of Youth Service

Recently, Lasse Gustavsson, CEO of Ocean Wise, has been getting the word out to high school students directly. He recently addressed the North Vancouver SD44 Climate Action and Sustainability Week from April 11-14, 2022. Gustavsson reminded his audience that there are โ€œ1.8 billion children in the world today and they will lead the wayโ€ in helping to make our oceans greener and cleaner. The application deadline is fast approaching. The 2022โ€™s intake for the Youth to Sea Leadership Program ends on April 24th.

Video courtesy of Ocean Wise

Placements for Young Adults

Other youth-based directives are the Youth Bridge Programs offered to 18โ€“30-year-olds. The Ocean Bridge Direct Action program offers a 3-month full-time immersive engagement. It offers young students and professionals an opportunity to gather firsthand experience in oceanic and aquatic conservation with marine specialists. This program runs from April-October.

The second program is the Ocean Bridge Classic. The classic program is a similar platform but in an expanded 6-month part-time program. They are currently recruiting from the East Coast region of Canada for a May โ€“ October 2022 enrollment.

Each program requires an initial Expression of Interest which can be in any media format that resonates with the applicant. These could be anything from an essay to an art portfolio. The intention is for learners to establish how the program will foster their passion for oceans and freshwaters. Learn more about Ocean Wise’s Youth Programs or other Climate Action initiatives at Ocean.org

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2022 Updates: PART 1 – Faun Studios

Image courtesy of Marisa P. Clark

RECAP

To begin with, FAUN Studios, the design company conceptualized in 2018 by Marisa P. Clark was our FALL 2020 interview. Clark is a young business graduate and fashion expert from Calgary, Alberta. She decided to make an impact on the fashion scene by recognizing the need for more sustainable choices. Conscientious manufacturing decisions such as โ€œwhere and how the fashion line would be madeโ€ were part of her initial mandate. FAST FASHION was NOT a model, she wanted to replicate. She explained in our interview that manufacturing in her motherโ€™s home country of Vietnam was important. Also, maintaining a classic fashion line was integral for long-lasting globally conscious fashion. Here is a link to the original webpage and interview which took place shortly after Vancouver Fashion Week in October 2020.

FASHION in 2022

Recently, Faun Studios brought their current Fall/Winter 2022/2023 line to Vancouver Fashion week this  April 7-10th, 2022. Vancouver Fashion Week is the second largest fashion week in North America. Faunโ€™s Fall/Winter Collection featured beautifully abstracted pastel landscapes on full legged knit pants and tops. Also, another new feature this year was her introduction of eco-dyed wool and recycled deadstock material used in the recent designs. With these cute little knit vests and skirts, this yearโ€™s line up really shows how Clark is expanding on her sustainable creations. The last post I read on her Instagram and Facebook pages, stated she is off to Europe. Iโ€™m sure this is part of the international expansion of the FAUN Studios fashion line. CHECK OUT her latest creations here:

YouTube Video thanks to Marisa P. Clark

Make sure to stay tuned to many more beautiful artful and climate-conscious designs from FAUN STUDIOS.

FAUN STUDIOS Webpage