As the spring equinox ushers in a season of renewal, the Junction Arts Festival invites people to experience ‘The Wind Telephone‘, an art installation that delves into themes of grief, connection, and release. This immersive and participatory installation, inspired by a true story, offers opportunity for personal reflection and emotional healing.
What is The Wind Telephone?
‘The Wind Telephone‘ is an intimate art installation where participants can reconnect with loved ones who have passed away. Inspired by Japanese garden designer Itaru Sasaki, who began calling his deceased cousin on an abandoned telephone booth in 2010, this installation has touched the hearts of many worldwide. Following the 2011 Tohoku tsunami, over 19,759 survivors visited Sasaki’s phone booth, and it has since been replicated globally.
Experience the Installation
Each participant will explore four connected creative spaces, each equipped with a telephone. During their allotted 25 minutes, they can choose to make calls from all four phones, just one, or none at all. The interaction is a one-way conversation, providing a secure, private, and safe environment for personal reflection, and the artists will be on-site to offer support. Participants can leave at any time and are encouraged to debrief with the artists, who will provide tea, coffee, and support materials on grief and counselling services.
Testimonials
“… It was a beautiful concept, emotive and touching… I didn’t want it to end, it was so engaging…” – Rose, Creative Development, Moonah Arts Centre
“…the simplicity of the artwork had true anonymity to cry and laugh and talk to whoever was on the other end, both without judgement or anyone else in the room…there was a genuine sense of calm and kindness that the invigilators instilled within me…” – Jordy, Creative Development, Moonah Arts Centre
The Journey of The Wind Telephone
In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Ivano, Mel, and Danni collaborated to create this work. Inspired by a podcast about Sasaki’s Wind Phone, they realised their shared experiences of significant family loss. In 2021, they pitched the idea at the Performing Lines – Tasmanian Artist Residency, receiving enthusiastic support. With mentorship from Western Australian educator and installation artist James Berlyn, they developed the project’s form, content, safety, ethics, and logistics at a MAC Residency and the new concept was accepted into the 2024 Junction Arts Festival and funded by a RANT arts grant.
Community Impact
‘The Wind Telephone‘ offers a contemporary space for expressing grief, addressing the societal need for ritual around loss. It encourages public participation and interaction with the arts, providing therapeutic benefits for the Tasmanian community. The project supports community members dealing with grief, promoting mental health and well-being. All proceeds of ticket sales will be donated to Lifeline Tasmania.
Dates and time brackets of the 20 minute sessions
Thursday September 19th 4:15pm-10:00pm
Friday September 20th 11:45am-6:00pm
Saturday September 21st 1:15pm-10:00pm
Sunday September 22nd 1:15pm-6:00pm
Tickets can be booked here at https://events.humanitix.com/wind-telephone
$10 donated to Lifeline Tasmania to secure your session.
Meet the Artists
Danni Ashton: With over 30 years of experience in theatre and community services, Danni has directed numerous award-winning productions and worked with various theatre companies in Western Australia and Hobart.
Melissa King: A graduate of Theatre Nepean, Mel is an accomplished actor, voice-over artist, director, and puppeteer. She has performed with several theatre companies and appeared in TV and film.
Ivano Del Pio: An award-winning performer based in Hobart, Ivano has extensive experience in theatre, film, and voice. He has acted for many companies and directed several productions.
Featured image above: left to right, Mel King, Ivano Del Pio, Danni Ashton.
