The above logo (I created) is Barbara and my new collaboration as artists-researchers-teachers, as we have just moved back to Canada and settled in Calgary, Alberta. Studio M* is a place and space for us to co-create with the Calgary Community (in particular the Beltline Neighborhoods downtown), and beyond that with anyone in the world who wishes to be in collaboration with us and wants to utilize Studio M*. Barbara has posted an initial blog ("Barbara Bickel tumblr") on this project, and the location of McHugh House (120 yrs. old) where our studio 6 space is--which I encourage you to have a look at some of the earliest stages of our creating and imagining. We're very excited about the possibilities...
As for why this is important to the Fearlessness Movement per se, I would encourage you to read the Studio M* Manifesto (version/exhibit #1.0), I have reprinted the Manifesto below (notice the particular reference to "without fear")... So, if you are interested to be a signatory of this Manifesto contact us r.michaelfisher52 [at] gmail.com and if you are traveling and want to drop by the studio to see what is going on, and if wish to join our Studio M* envisioning processes, then WE INVITE YOU to participate and help build a synergy that can make a positive difference. We look forward to hearing from you. If you are interested in doing some kind of creative/artistic Residency with us, give us an email: r.michaelfisher52 [at] gmail.com and we can talk about potentials for you using Studio M* ... that is, if you find our Manifesto in some way resonates with you and your work in the world...
Studio M* : Manifesto Exhibit #1.0 (Aug.-Sept., 2017)
WE are a research creation lab intersecting Arts, Culture & Healing
- WE are committed to an inclusive & expansive curatorial practice that stems from the Latin root curare- “to take care”
- EVERYTHING is encountering others, human & more-than-human, a tableau of unique creative collaborations
- WE commit to a Matrixial co-poetic paradigm of Artworkings in radical trust
- WE practice a co-relational Aesthetic as foundational and preceding the Ethical, while both ought to inform the shape of the Political
- WE live with the premise that EVERYTHING began without fear... imagine that!
- SPONTANEITY is the life-blood-water of play, humour, sociality, sustainability, health & ecological sanity
Signatories:
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*M stands for “Matrixial” theory based on Bracha L. Ettinger’s art & philosophy. See, for e.g., her book The Matrixial Borderspaces published in 2005 by University of Minnesota Press. Or a good video of Ettinger with art historian Griselda Pollock, go to "Istanbul in/+ Leeds Event 3: Making with Bracha Ettinger": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqwWIr3WjxU
Studio M* is a restorative and transformational learning, teaching, and creative inquiry space for all. Co-conceived by artists-researchers-teachers Drs. Barbara Bickel and R. Michael Fisher.
Comments
Thanks Michael. This is such a beautiful effort. I hope you and Barbara have a wonderful experience with this! -Dona
Great Jan. The intentions of the Manifesto are pretty much stated in general... that's it ... anything beyond that is "details" and emergent ... we'll eventually put the Manifesto for Studio M* on a specific website (hopefully in the next month or so)... also, you are most welcome to submit an "artist in residence" proposal to work at Studio M* ... if that interests you, let us know, and we'll send you more info. (Same goes for anyone else)... I put the title of the video I was mentioning in the blog there now... and, maybe the link will work now... either way you ought to find it easily. -cheers. M.
Hi Michael & Barbara,
What's not to love about this project? I want to sign the manifesto... when I get clear on the intentions. But the link to Ettinger & Pollocks video does not work. There are so many videos posted... Michael, which video are you referencing?
Thanks... Janet
Several other comments on Studio M* project have come in, thanks folks, here are a few of them (btw, we will be setting up a website separately for this project):
"Exciting concepts and mission of socially engaged art for you two! Congratulations with securing your new digs!"
"Big hellos and yes to Studio M."
Best wishes in your new venture!
"We're sure with your and Barbara's talents it will be a great success."
"I am excited to learn about your new venture and want to come to Calgary soon to spend with you both.
When I saw your email (and Barbara's post) about Studio M*, I was wondering if you might send me an "official" email, inviting to me to apply for a residency or something?"
"I hope the change in Barbara's and your's lives has been a positive one with the move back to Calgary. Looking forward to seeing some updates of your studio."
"This is very exciting! Welcome back to Canada!"
"I love love love everything about this--that you're doing it, the manifesto, the photos of you and Michael signing the manifesto, the open door to your new art space. All of it. I'm so happy for you and Michael and simultaneously so inspired."
Dear Michael and Barbara,
Have read through what is started here, I think I misconstrued this mission via the email you sent to me and Desh. However, I think this is a welcomed development and another milestone for you. Congratulations.
Osinakachi Akuma Kalu
Dear Michael and Barbara !
Nice starting. please keep going. I wish you both for its success. Whenever I get opportunity to come Canada, My best effort will be to see your creation. I hope you are happy in your home town. Hope will do good.
Best,
Desh subba
Hong Kong.