At the core of her work, Tunkl is fascinated by the Anthropocene, a term that denotes both “man” and “new”. Smithsonian Magazine characterizes the Anthropocene as the current geological epoch whereas “human-kind has caused mass extinctions of plant and animal species, polluted the oceans and altered the atmosphere, among other lasting impacts.” In focusing on this movement, one which contributes to our own demise, Tunkl exposes her audience to the tragic reality we are all living in; a reality without immediate answers.
Her current work, Parting Practice: Rituals for Endings and Failure, scarcely takes a subtle approach, examining fear, death and the “phenomenon of haunting.” Indulging in her long-term interest of the individual, Tunkl’s one-on-one sessions will incorporate methods of Buddhist meditation, sound therapy, somatic practices, psychoanalysis, cognitive therapy and humor. These performance pieces are interdependent, serving the artist to understand, and allowing the volunteer to heal.
The artist’s latest book, When You Die You Will Not Be Scared To Die, dissects human preoccupations with death, then reframes them as something to look forward to rather than fight against. In offering viewers a reflexive experience with their emotions, Tunkl’s ultimate goal is to provide each person a place within a world that is, unfortunately, heartbreaking.
Far from conventional, Lindsay Tunkl offers something unique to her viewers. More than anything, she’s curious—of what it means to be human and of what it means to be fearful. If you’re curious, you’ll be able to find her on July 14th from 2:00-4:30pm at E.M. Wolfman General Interest Bookstore.
// Interactive performance pieces at various Bay Area locations, (Lands End Coastal Outlook, San Francisco) July 15, (Lake Temescal, Oakland) July 21, (Mountain View Cemetery, Oakland) July 22 Registration required to attend one of the viewings, email info@frameworksf.com for information on how to participate.
