Ho’iho’i (echo) | podcast and visual art series
Visuals: The project showcases a stunning array of visuals, from the sun-kissed shores of Wailea to the lush, mystical forests of Hana. Through carefully curated photographs, videos, and perhaps even virtual reality experiences, you’ll feel as if you’re standing on the summit of Haleakalā at sunrise or wading through the crystal-clear waters of Molokini Crater.
Narrative: Hoʻihoʻi weaves a narrative that goes beyond the surface beauty. It delves into the island’s history, mythology, and the timeless stories of its inhabitants. From the legendary demigod Maui to the significance of ‘ohana (family), every image and word is a piece of the island’s living story.
Cultural Exploration: The project explores the traditions and cultural practices that make Maui unique. Whether it’s the rhythmic chants of hula dancers, the craft of weaving lauhala, or the art of preparing a traditional luau, you’ll gain a deep appreciation for the island’s heritage.
Conservation and Sustainability: Hoʻihoʻi also sheds light on the importance of preserving Maui’s natural wonders. It highlights the efforts to protect endangered species, conserve fragile ecosystems, and promote sustainable practices to ensure Maui’s beauty endures for generations.
Community Engagement: Throughout the project, there’s an emphasis on engaging with the local community. Interviews with Maui residents, artisans, and cultural experts provide an intimate perspective, fostering a sense of connection between viewers and the island’s people.
Interactive Elements: To make the project even more immersive, interactive elements might include 360-degree photos, virtual tours, or even an interactive map allowing viewers to explore Maui’s landmarks and hidden gems.
In Hoʻihoʻi you’ll not only see the island’s breathtaking vistas but also feel the heartbeat of its culture and the warmth of its people. It’s an invitation to experience Maui’s magic and to connect with the aloha spirit that permeates every corner of this tropical paradise.
what about daisy ? | animated children’s book series and advocacy campaign
What about Daisy? is a heartfelt story inspired by the author, Maryam Faresh’s, own experiences with Daisy, her deaf blind dog:
Daisy, a deaf blind rescue dog, is in search of her forever home. The colorful and impressionistic illustrations tell the same story as the text, but offer a few special hints in the beginning pages; these hints indicate that Daisy is a little more special than the other dogs at her rescue facility. Using a repetitive phrase: What about Daisy?, Author, Faresh encourages readers to experience empathy for Daisy. This repetitive phrase also allows young readers to stay connected to the purpose of the book the search for Daisy’s forever home and it also builds anticipation and hope. The book offers opportunities for young readers to raise questions about special needs, and increases awareness in the areas of self-acceptance, acceptance of others, and the importance of friendship. Proceeds from the What About Daisy? book sales goes to charities for both deaf blind children and special needs pets in need of adoption. Emerging World Project has animated this book into video with gorgeous narration by s2.1 podcast guest, Greta Mae and an advocacy campaign voiced by VO artist, Lisa Lynn.
What about Daisy ? © Written by Maryam Faresh w/ original illustrations by Gail Suzanne Weissman, MFA.
noc noc ? | binoculars, kids &citizen science
Where See Me Project, South Africa brings awareness to the lives of children orphaned by the HIV/AIDS crisis, through photography, through the finder of binoculars, the noc noc project is headed your way with a culturally minded advocacy campaign in collaboration (we hope) with our feathered friends!
This project through its advocacy campaign, micro documentary, and citizen science contributions shares what is possible when many lives with different perspectives come together and co-create an experience with environmental positivity as its guide. Collaborating with the birding community and citizen scientists, this culturally mindful gathering of participants will bring the youth into the fold of the natural world as participants in an intention of well-being for the life of birds.
life release | liberating animals bred for slaughter and captivity
According to Buddhist teachings, there are many benefits to saving lives of other sentient beings, the tshe thar (Tib. ཚེ་ཐར་) life release practice is when practitioners collect money to buy out animals which had been bred for slaughter. and captivity. Then, these animals are set free back into their natural habitats where they have the best chance to survive. In collaboration with select communities EWP with coordinate a three day event where the practice of Life Release will be done. This practice will be translated in an intersectional -inclusive way and done in the spirit of “tshe thar” working with ecologist, environmentalist, urban planners and animal welfare activist. We hope all will rejoice in the relief of suffering for these sentient beings.