Caressing the Earth

Of Maps and Mice, Flowers and Feet

Authors

• celine s diaz Aalto University
• Dominik Fleischmann Aalto University

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54916/rae.119471

Keywords:

ritual, soil, connection, inclusiveness, mice, landscape, care, bodily knowledge

Abstract

This joint article draws on artistic practices that showcase how relations to nature can articulate rituals of care and reciprocity in embodied experiences and sympoesis. It discusses active approaches to practicing sympathetic interaction with Nature by challenging our habitual processes of forming connection. The paper revolves around modes of exploitation in animal experiments and the lack of emotional knowledge and connection in science, in The Touch of
Soil by Dominik Fleischmann; and advocates for attention to soil, in Palpating Landscape by celine s diaz, as ritualistic extension of inclusiveness for the
landscape. Through creative writing, theoretic reflection and the photographic medium, both unravel deep concerns for the human-centred approach of viewing and engaging with the natural world and its habitants and advocate for a broader agency, action invoked in caring. Finding overlapping questions, this paper shows two practices of responsibility as empathy and care are evermore significant in our relationship with nature. These vulnerable acts comprehend
disruptive temporalities and propose a kinder but equally relevant message: “I care”.