A Year in Review with Lisa Lej January 22, 2020
Blessed 2020 my Sweet Spirits! I can already feel the prosperity in the air with this twin number “2020.� A year of harmony and compassion to accomplish our missions with enthusiasm.
Can you feel it?
First of I want to start off by saying that I thank you for taking the time to read this I know that you and I have so much to manage in our day to day hectic lives, both personal and professionally. I have made this short and spicy for your digestion. Also, I try to make it fun for you bay adding some…. You will find out.
I know we still have work load of last year that spills over onto this year’s desk, it’s quite optimistic to look at it from a new perspective. Trust me!
It gives me the zest to start the year completing tasks that I had hoped to complete last year, like finish editing and publishing this review for instance, lol. Right?
I must say I really like being a Conceptual Artist Visionnaire having the freedom to expressing my ‘quirkiness’ in my creative writing.
When I started this project it was just a silly little joke I made with mother Sea that it was my dreams to travel all 4 corners of the earth to sea all her beauty and pick up trash as a symbol of gratitude for making me so happy when I am sad. Then the dreams started... Be careful of what you think.
Think it, Speak it, Dream it, Live it.
10 years ago I met a strange and depressed old lady who taught me something I will never forget. She wrote all her anxieties in the sand and when the waves came in they collected them and washed away.
Isn’t that beautiful? You can just leave all your problems at the sea, just like the trash. But where do the go?
Now, 10 years later, I am looking back at the accomplishments and come to think of it, I have made it into a CARREER. Career? Oh! Well, yes I made a career out of it. Collecting trash, repurposing them with my creating mind and hands, sharing the inspiration with those I meet along the journey and come to think of it I have a few pieces of trash from Juhu Beach in Mumbai, India.... Haha! I strongly believe that the Dream world is a map that connects us with divinity and guides us through the chaos of this world. Life really is one big road with lots of signs.
We are given the gift of a new beginning each morning we wake. It gives us the opportunity to shed whatever that doesn’t serve us of the past and embrace the power of now while we shape the future that we wish to live it. It also conveys that its ok to try new things that seem impossible, and that there is no failure in doing so.
Failure only comes when one doesn’t make an effort. Not accomplishing full what you set out to achieve should not hinder you from trying again but teach you to observe the outcome and approach it from a different perspective. What matters is that you learn and grow towards that goal.
The Wright brothers didn’t become legend by giving up after their major plane crash 1908 (the first plane crash) while conducting a demonstration, showing the US army who was interested in purchasing how safe and practical their invention was, leaving Orville Wright with fractured hip and a life time of pain due to dislodgement of one of the propellers. According to Miss Cellania (2013). “The Wright brothers, Wilbur and Orville, were the first pilots to have a successful manned flight.” https://www.neatorama.com/2013/03/13/Orville-Wright-and-the-First-Person-to-Die-in-an-Airplane/
The US Army today has an air force and we now can enjoy the treasures of the 4 poles of the world with invention. Isn’t that marvellous?
I believe that we all get the picture by now and without further ado let’s cut the ribbon.
I want to start by giving a huge thank you to Simone Campbell, former GM. and Carleen Brown, former Secretary at Bay View Eco Resort & Spa (Main Sponsor) for facilitating our Sustainable Art & Jewellery Exhibition on November 22, 2018 that gave over 10 local artist the opportunity to showcase their spectacular creations in an elegant atmosphere. See here: https://www.instagram.com/p/BruJ-yilPwO/
There were some challenges with the turn out on the opening evening due to inclement weather which made my legs shaky and stomach turning, however, the closing was quite a pleasant surprise with a dramatic rise in the number of guests who turned up regardless of the weather conditions. I am very thankful for the artist who participated exhibition: LĂŠj . Lisa . Inansi . Scheed Cole (360 Recycle), Winston Hill, G. Barrant, Hopeton Campbell, S. Campbell, S. Cunningham, Mark Bell. https://www.facebook.com/LejArtS/videos/328267241111406/
A Tremendous blessings to Television Jamaica (TVJ) and one of TVJ’s Producer Cameka K. McCrae, for having us on Weekend Smile and generally providing media coverage. See here: https://www.facebook.com/LejArtS/videos/328267241111406/
We didn’t reach our chief goal in sales, however, we are deeply gracious for the overall sales and donations that were made to wonderful souls from all over the world who came to support this initiative.
Even the Cat came by and was happy to see colourful Plastic Bottle Fish Ornaments. Hehe!
This paved the way for us to make available Artistic Movement sessions in:
Boundbrook Infant School (80 children for 6 months once a week, ages 45) See here: https://www.instagram.com/p/Buv7s4OFBj6/ Drapers All Age (30 children for 2 months twice weekly, 3-4) Boston Bay Primary School (15 children once weekly for 4 weeks, ages 913) Community Centre (15 children ages 8-13) Couple of private sessions to children of the community https://www.instagram.com/p/B3EJeWJFJDT/
Ocean and waterway trash ranks as one of the most serious pollution problems choking our planet. Far more than an eyesore, a rising tide of marine debris threatens human health, wildlife, communities and economies around the world. The ocean faces many challenges, but trash should not be one of them.
Ocean trash is entirely preventable, and data you collect are part of the solution.
Trash to Treasure Journey We had managed to conduct beach clean-up for 9 consecutive months 5 days a week where we shared the joy with friends and newly made friends at each locations nearby. From The Errol Flynn Marina to Boston Bay Beach We manage to collect and record the following:
Cigarette Butts: 3600
Rope (1 yard/meter = 1 piece): 10
Food Wrappers (candy, chips, etc.): 3600
6-Pack Holders 18
Take Out/Away Containers (Foam): 1800
Other Plastic/Foam Packaging: 180
Bottle Caps (Plastic): 7200
Other Plastic Bottles (oil, bleach, etc.): 1800
Bottle Caps (Metal): 7200
Tobacco Packaging/Wrap: 10
Straws/Stirrers: 7200
Condoms: 180
Forks, Knives, Spoons: 1800
Diapers: 3
Beverage Bottles (Plastic): 7200
Syringes: 5
Beverage Bottles (Glass): 1800
Appliances (refrigerators, washers, etc.): 3
Grocery Bags (Plastic): 180
Cigarette Lighters: 20
Other Plastic Bags: 360
Construction Materials: 5
Cans: 360
Tires: 1
Cups & Plates (Plastic):1800
Foam Pieces: 7200
Cups & Plates (Foam):3600
Glass Pieces 7200
Fishing Net & Pieces: 2
Plastic Pieces 7200
Fishing Line (1 yard/meter = 1 piece): 10
Organic (Orange, banana peels etc) 180
Number of Trash Bags Filled: 180
Weight of Trash Collected: 6 lbs/kgs
Distance Cleaned: miles
Observation: Based on our observation we had applied strategic planning in our collection of waste products based on popularity. As you see above the highest figures represent the most popular items and so to keep our calculation simple we had to have a cut-off point. Initially we wanted to collect 20 pieces of the most popular items however we decided to double the figure and still there were left overs. We did our best. Others that were not as popular we stuck to our 20 a day margin and the least popular one a day. The figure reflects the total number of trash collected over the 9
month period (trash x 5 days x 4 weeks x 9 months). Distance varied from the Park in Port Antonio Marina to Boston Bay Beach.
There was soldier / hermit crab made her home inside of a partially burnt plastic bottle. This was shocking and very sad to see I wasn’t sure if I were to take her out or if she was comfortable with it. She seemed pretty ok making it her home so I left her. It was rather a sad sight. We never made to Long Bay and beyond as wanted and we never made it a year. We crashed and burned. Luckily still alive. We had very pleasant people most time, especially children who were helpful while a few not so pleasant men who harassed us sexually and other wise which was scary.
Our involvement in providing the children with artistic movement gave us the opportunity to learn more about the nation’s children, their diet, character, lifestyle, relationship with each other and other areas. They are all such sweet personalities despite the challenges they face in their community. I personally saw one child dancing in a provocative manner in a tree shouting with joy, “When I grow up I want to be a go-go.” Heaven knows where she got that from. I also recall seeing one boy hiding in the bushes behind a brothel peeking through the window to see some action one afternoon while taking an evening stroll to the beach.
And You Know What’s True?
You Are What You Eat.
That is the Truth
Apparently the brothel was technically in the same yard as the apartment complex. The only thing separating both buildings were some shrubs. You should see the look on this young man’s face when he saw me. He knew he was up to no good. Of course I asked him and he shrugged his shoulder. I nicely asked him to go home his mom might be needing his help. These days I guess anything goes.
We had lots of great moments. The children were very caring and helpful to each other. They were so loving towards us by greeting us with warm hugs and kisses. We shared the little meals we had and even I learnt from them interesting things. I love this. Oh boy I miss them so much. It was hard to say good bye. I for one felt something for each and every child and wish that I could have spent more time with them and go deeper in my workshops. The separation for me was very hard. It was the hardest thing to say good bye but I believe that I will see them again if we are able to fund the next chapter of this project.
Conclusion: Children are gifts, a bundle of joy indeed.
Thank the goddess we had a tank full of passion that kept us going for it was quite a very challenging journey emotionally, physically, psychologically and otherwise. I had a minor heart attack one morning while getting ready for workshop with the children at the local community centre. I didn’t know what it was until I consulted my doctor.
Plant more flowering plants. Bees are dying at a rapid rate, of thrust. I have rescued a couple while some have died in my hand countless number of times. It’s very sad.
I was a bit hesitant about including this in my report as I don’t want anyone’s pity, however I think it’s is import to share the level of passion and care I put into my work. Come to think of it, great inventions come with great risks. It’s the dharma, the law of attraction. Though the Wright brothers survived the first fatal crash their partner Thomas Selfridge died of a fractured skull while Orville Wright suffered pain from a fractured hip in 1912. https://www.neatorama.com/2013/03/13/Orville-Wright-and-the-First-Person-to-Die-in-anAirplane/ I am thankful to be alive till this date January 17, 2020 and looking forward to another adventure really soon. Our national heroes died to set us free and I believe that every bit of pain along this artistic ecological spiritual journey is an honour to acquire.
The lesson learnt is that though it’s good to practise empathy there needs to be balance for too much empathy can lead to fatality especially when the world around you has none for you. “Art is about connecting with people’s emotions. It’s personal and at the same time, universal.” https://www.artworkarchive.com/blog/what-is-the-artist-s-role-in-society
I only wish to be positive about the future but have we forgotten that it takes a village to raise a child and that children mimic exactly what we do and not what they are told? Well in case you didn’t know, now you do. Try it. There were other events I wish not to disclose but at month 9 we had to abort mission. We exhausted our budget and our energy was completely depleted. I personally, currently getting therapy. A little counselling goes a long way.
Working with other healers in the past I observed that they too have healers who look after them periodically. We are humans and we are here for each other, though we are doing the work of the most high, the light that guides us through this convoluted world it is only natural to return to the source for a reset.
Overall it was a great mission. No regrets.
Challenges and Possible Solutions: Fundraising- It’s a pretty expensive mission but we were able to make adjustment. However, with better funding we could have gone through an entire year at ease. There is a huge need for wellness programs in schools to raise the awareness of the importance of living an ecological lifestyle and how it gravely impart the environment and the world around us overall. Our environment is a reflection of us and how we see ourselves. This is a lesson that needs to be consistent in order for it to stick as what is very critical is dropping habits that don’t serve us and the environment while adapting ones that are ecological.
Empathy and Awareness- I have seen one numerous occasions where people walk right by the bin and drop there rubbish on the ground instead. The bins are not it issue, having a sense empathy and awareness is. There needs to be a department that is delegated towards to promotion of a healthy environment via eco-friendly practices. This needs to be consistent for it to be contagious. Investing in artisans and other innovative conceptualisers if the way forward. In terms of the future generation, it takes a village to raise a child. Children do exactly what we do as adults and not what they are told in most cases. They don’t understand what is morally
positive or ethical. I think, it’s best that they are exposed to things that will serve them well in life. The light that guides them through the challenges of life, towards peace, love and prosperity.
Space - I was quite flabbergasted how difficult it was to get venue sponsorship to host our fundraising art exhibition. I wonder why. I thought that it would have been easier being that it is going to a well needed cause and would give the sponsors a good name for helping the environment. Well I guess Jamaica is growing towards being aware of how beneficial it is for companies that support the well-being of the environment. Do your research. Customers are more likely to support businesses that have a sustainable program contributing to the well-being of their environment. We have had better experiences collaborating with organisations in the USA. Well, they are more aware and prepared than we are but we are getting there. No True? (Jamaican Patois for isn’t that true?)
Though it’s there you don’t have to use it. Say NO TO PLASTIC STRAWS Also, we would like the space to be able to repurpose these waste instead of putting them into the bins. The whole idea is to reduce waste that enters the landfills. We all know what happens then. Right?
Transportation- We would like to have our own van to transport our findings so that we are able to do much more for we love what we do and wish to continue to do so.
More Hands- We have had few others who helped along the way. This was quite a surprise difficult it was for the adults to grasp how natural it should be to keep the environment clean. They say and think that it is not there trash so why should they pick it up. Well every waste in the environment adds up to the natural disaster we face which result in lives and assets lost. Sooooooo, why not? The children are fun they were very happy to play with us and that’s what we want, a new generation coming up to care for the land that makes us happy and healthy.
Security- Sexual harassment is somewhat embedded in our culture as Jamaicans (which will, one day, change). I assume that you understand what I am saying, however, we would like to feel safe while going out there to collect disposables on the beach. We love what we do and wish to continue. We have had a few unpleasant experiences which makes us a little concerned. Currently we are just a very small group of women, 3 mothers of a green tomorrow and a few volunteer, from time to time, will join along the way. Any suggestions?
I think that local businesses should be happy to help in the upliftment and preservation of their environment as the size of pollution they leave behind impact the environment is rather significantly. They also, suffer a lot from natural disasters caused by pollution.
Failure and Success: Well we did it!
We made a dream into reality so there was no failure, however a few challenges that can easily be fixed.
Overall we have exceeded our expectations in the executing this project with such little resources pulled form savings and fundraiser. The children love it and we love them too. I definitely do.
“Art was designed by God as a form of worship. God instructed Moses to instruct the people to design various parts of the temple in exactly the manner he prescribed.” https://www.godtube.com/news/top-10-bible-verses-about-art-with-commentary.html)
We have come to a conclusion that this could be an annual project that runs for 6 months in at least 4 educational institution providing at least 3 personnel for every 20 children per session. For now, that is. This could be extended for 12 months in the future with adequate resources.
Eutrophication in Rio Grande caused by Agricultural Runoffs and Mining
I have come to the conclusion that the sea, beach / ocean is where it all goes, the pain and pleasures of our lives, but it doesn’t end there. Pollutants make their way back on the table and
into our stomach that sends these toxic chemicals to the brain through the consumption of sea food. In the ocean everything is meant to be food. The creatures don’t know the difference.
I guess this explains the rapidly growing rate of mental illness. It’s no coincidence that in this era of climatic turmoil that there is a global mass depression and women lifting the veil of domestic violence among other abuses that have been kept quiet for so long. Another ice-age.
Natural disasters are a form of mother earth cleansing. How are we cleansing. The solution seems to be a more personal and internal one. The solution towards adapting to the changes lies within our minds. A cry for change in the way we perceive ourselves which is reflected in the
world around us. Let’s Meditate. A journey within, a journey to the source for understanding, healing and cleansing. I time of reset.
“Everybody loves. Everybody hurts. Everybody hopes. And, everybody dies. Mainly, art is about our own sense of mortality. It’s a lifestyle”
Having adequate resource is very essential in making this work. Please feel free to request the sponsorship package for more information on getting involved upcoming project and also check out what wonders we have made from findings in our catalogue attached. We appreciate your support. https://issuu.com/ecoartmagazine/docs/lisa_lej_jewelry_catalog_1_2020-2 https://issuu.com/ecoartmagazine/docs/ecological_art_whole_sale
Satnam!
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