Offsite 9: Kindness if Free - let's pass it on
Sue Brisco
Kanj Nicholas: Kindness is the Heartbeat of Our City
Susan Brisco: The Science of Kindness
Nicholas and Brisco will exhibit two separate but interconnected bodies of work in an exhibition at Newhampton Arts Centre. Their project examines the theme of kindness through visual artworks, workshops and poetry.
How did you alight on the theme of kindness and why is it so vital at this time?
KN: Sue and I were instantly drawn to the theme as we were then emerging from the pandemic. Communities came together with acts of kindness to support one another in this time of need. I will highlight some of the uplifting stories through my paintings that focus on those who made a difference.
SB: Scientists have revealed that kindness can benefit our health. It activates the brain to release chemicals that calm our parasympathetic nervous system which in turn helps lower our heartrate and blood pressure, reduces our stress levels and eases social anxieties. I felt compelled to share this message with others.
How are you collaborating?
SB: Each artist takes the lead at different times and being kind is embedded. This makes for a very pleasant working relationship. We are each using social media in our own ways to reach a diverse audience.
KN: We both work separately on our individual bodies of work and communicate regularly. Part of working together is being able to support each other and encourage each other.
Kanj Nicholas
What will the exhibition look like?
KN: It offers two clear perspectives on kindness. The acrylic paintings I produce will communicate the message of kindness as the heartbeat of our community. These colourful, uplifting artworks will narrate stories of kindness within our city. There will be kindness quotes and a display of Postcards of Kindness threaded throughout the exhibition.
SB: My artwork will involve elements of film, drawing and sound focusing on the science of kindness. The artwork will explore imagery of the brain and the body’s nervous system and the changes taking place when giving or receiving kindness. A spoken soundscape will instil a calming atmosphere. There will be an open evening with recitals of poetry and artists talks to welcome audiences.
Tell us more about the workshops and poetry sessions.
KN: Workshops will be held at Newhampton Arts Centre. My workshop for children and families, encourages simple acts kindness that are free to give and wonderful to receive. Children will create cards that communicate what kindness means to them and how it makes them feel to give and receive kindness.
SB: My workshop is aimed at adults where participants will be encouraged to design a Postcard of Kindness that focuses on the science of kindness and how it effects our bodies. Each card will be displayed and later posted back to the maker. There will be two commissioned poems, one based on kindness as the heartbeat of our city and another that will draw on the science and health aspects arising from kindnesses.
What do you hope the viewer will take away from this project?
SB: We want to use the artworks to open up conversations how being kind can benefit our health and each other.
KN: We aim to share a simple message of kindness; that kindness is for all and is a legacy for all future generations to pass on.