February 2014 Innsbruck….

I returned two days ago from the Minding Animals International Conference, held at the University of Innsbruck (Feb 6 – 8th). I met many very interesting and well-informed people. I enjoyed learning about the dingo, but I was sad and shocked to hear of all the animals who die pressed against the so-called rabbit proof fence, in their efforts to reach water in Southern Australia. Learning about veterinary science in ancient Mesopotamia was also fascinating, and lovely to see the ancient carved tablets which bequeath us this information.

Innsbruck itself is reached by a slightly hairy plane ride in between enormous mountain peaks. The airport is tiny compared to Gatwick. The city seemed quiet, with little traffic, few tourists, and generally an atmosphere of calm.

By the river Inn
By the river Inn

I gave two talks/workshops focusing on the animals human relationship and in particular what animals have taught me. I spoke about my mare and what she taught me about motherhood. I spoke at some length about my show at Newlyn Art Gallery, and about what we can learn from entering into a conversation with Nature. I asked the people in the audience to reflect on events in their lives where animals had been significant, and to consider what they had learned. I spoke about my work really at its heart being about close attention, affection, and nurturing.

Talking about being 'cooked' in the belly of the mare.. about having one's cells brought to a state of peace, protection, and high attention
Talking about being ‘cooked’ in the belly of the mare.. about having one’s cells brought to a state of peace, protection, and high attention

 

speaking about what we share with animals
speaking about what we share with animals

 

speaking about my dream of the skin-gift
speaking about my dream of the skin-gift

 

discussing Goethe, and how deer appear
discussing Goethe, and how deer appear

 

speaking about Rilke's poem about animals having a different state of consciousness to ours'
speaking about Rilke’s poem about animals having a different state of consciousness to ours’

 

After I had given my talks I visited the mountain foothills and had a wonderful time exploring the snow-clad forests. It was beautiful, I loved it.

Entering the forest above Mutters
Entering the forest above Mutters

2014-02-10 14.13.01

 seed head with snow cap
seed head with snow cap
Tree made soft, made creaturely
Tree made soft, made creaturely

More soon on my visit to the Tiroler Folk Museum, which was amazing!!