I have learned that the key to making anything is to just start. Sometimes, it’s helpful to meticulously plan out all the steps and then sometimes you just have to let the creation itself tell you where to go. I let myself make mistakes. I let myself re-do the beginning over again as a technique develops. If you find your mind reeling with WHAT IFS? Understand that it might not be the time to think about it. Make the first step and then the next and then the next- before you know it you won’t be able to stop.
In this new show that I am creating I am having fun exploring images that have been presented by my psyche. One of these is the image of the character Loretta with a HOUSE for a head. So- I’m building that house mask now. It started as a cardboard box and now is complete with windows, doors, balsa wood sidings and a chimney. I’ve been home with a cold (not covid) building this house for like 6 hours a day.
When it is finished I will begin the exploration of WHAT DOES THIS HOUSE DO? There is much potential and some sort of movement dream piece is being revealed to me. I imagine Loretta peeking out the windows, or drawing the curtains. I’ll start with those ideas and then PLAY WITH IT. Can I make the chimney puff out smoke? What of mind as space? Body as location? House as safety? Come in? Don’t come in?
I spent all last week building this house mask because it was an image that delighted me. Here I am staying home, building a tiny house that fits on my head.
I dream of building a home that not only can house my entire body, but one that can house a community. It most likely won’t be in my current location of Vancouver. Apparently, Vancouver is deemed the 2nd least affordable city in the world.
I may not be able to afford to buy a house, but, praise be for the privilege of drinking water straight from the tap.
Thank you for reading “THE BONES”- a process report of art and decolonization.
I am currently researching “THE CURE FOR FEAR” – a physical theatrical/ digital arts exploration around the disconnection that occurs from trauma. In a world where the power holders would have us privatize and distrust our feelings in silence and obedience, how does one begin and continue on a journey of decolonization and reconnection? What transformation happens within the psyche as a person emerges from despondency and disembodiment?
I believe in the power of laughter, so, how can one find lightness in the heaviest of topics? How can the subject matter be delivered in a way that surprises the experiencer with their own discoveries?
Always open to feedback if it is constructive and kind. No haters please. candicerobertstheatre@gmail.com
Candice Roberts 