Sister Birch is an exploration of emotional identity when faced with an event that strips away external identifiers. Our emotional identities are defined by how we respond to situations that evoke a response and how that shapes our perception of who we are. Sharing our experiences with others fosters genuine human connection, which in turn helps us investigate and validate our own sense of self.
When examining emotional identity, it is powerful to question how we see ourselves; am I defined by external things that are tangible, or internal values that are more abstract? Is my identity connected to what I produce? This project aims to use process and material exploration to parallel our own journey of self-discovery.
The audio annotating the video is from a “Virtual Connection Circle,” where ten participants were asked a question about their emotional identity and shared their responses with the group. Having the time and space to experiment with new materials and expand his identity as an artist, clay Mohrman used birch bark for this project. Birch trees grow in groves and are often called “Sister Birch.” This is a testament to the importance of relying on one’s community to be able to stand alone. The bark’s exterior symbolizes the layered and complex quality of our emotional identities.
With a background in wilderness therapy and group mediation, Baker runs Virtual Connection Circles for groups, individuals and businesses. A “circle” is a container in which groups access genuine human connection and team building through mindfulness and discussion in a structured and safe space. Bliss runs weekly Virtual Circles open to the public and facilitates private Circles as well. For more information, see her website here.
