The Shinrin-Yoku Art Hike returns to Clatsop Community College on June 7th with an added tea rituals experience. CCC’s spring term Basic Design art class in collaboration with the college’s English Club and the ArtVenture Club invite the community to this unique event on Friday, June 7th, from noon to 2 p.m. This special day marks the last day of the Annual Juried Art Student Show and combines a leisurely walk along the scenic campus trail which highlights the profound connection between the ancient Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, or “forest bathing,”. The ritual of tea across different cultures will be featured from 1-2 p.m. during the event. Original handmade tea bowls will be on loan for the event from recently retired CCC ceramics instructor Richard Rowland.
The walk in nature begins at the trailhead located in the lower parking lot at the end of Lexington Avenue, just below the Art Building. This event offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a blend of nature, culture, and visual arts, where creativity meets the calming essence of the forest. In the event of rain, the tea party portion will be held indoors in the Royal Nebeker Gallery.
The Ritual of Tea: A Global Perspective
Japanese Tea Ceremony (Chanoyu): In Japan, the tea ceremony is a meditative practice that emphasizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. The ritual involves a series of precise movements and a mindful focus on the preparation and enjoyment of matcha (powdered green tea). Like Shinrin-Yoku, the Japanese tea ceremony fosters a deep appreciation for the present moment and the beauty of simplicity.
British Afternoon Tea: British afternoon tea, though more social in nature, also embodies principles of relaxation and enjoyment. This ritual, which typically involves drinking tea and enjoying light refreshments, provides an opportunity to take a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life and connect with others in a peaceful setting.
Shinrin-Yoku: The Art of Forest Bathing
Inspired by the innovative “Sunday in the Park with Art” by local artist, performer, and activist Marco Davis, the Shinrin-Yoku event features both individual and collaborative student art installations along the trail. Shinrin-Yoku, or “forest bathing,” is a Japanese practice of healing that involves spending time in natural settings. This practice offers numerous benefits, such as boosted immune function, reduced blood pressure, decreased stress, improved mood, enhanced focus, increased energy, and better sleep.
CCC art student Jessica Bahl envisions visitors walking through the gateway she has created for the event and seeing themselves mirrored in the forest, hoping to evoke a sense of unity with nature, prompting introspection and mindfulness. Another student, Tanya Diaz Dolores emphasizes that under the canopy of ancient trees, time slows down, allowing us to savor each breath and absorb the essence of the forest’s wisdom. “As we wander along the winding paths,” Tanya states, “our senses awaken to the symphony of bird songs and the earthy scent of moss guiding us towards a deeper sense of harmony within ourselves and the natural world.”
Students were given two specific design challenges: to convey the critical importance of valuing and preserving our environment, and to use only materials that would otherwise be considered waste or natural elements from the earth. CCC student Noah Fukuda, for example, created koi kites from recycled aluminum cans. These kites, typically flown in Japan, represent strength and perseverance. By weaving the cans together into intricate forms, Fukuda highlights the beauty and resilience found both in nature and recycled materials.
Art student Britteny Holden invites participants to let their stress melt away while walking through the forest. She encourages them to listen to the birds singing and feel the sunshine on their faces, observing the beauty in the upcycled art that has been recreated into something magical. Fellow art student Joshua Martin-Schlichting describes his art as an extension of nature, with a beautifully decorated wind chime made from reclaimed bottles, metal from a hospital bed, hemp rope, and a planter base. His work captures the feeling of walking through the forest, with the winds blowing across your face and body, the smell of the forest, and the sound of wind rushing past you.
The Basic Design students have prepared artist statements to be displayed alongside their artwork on the trail. With these unique designs interspersed along the path, the class aims to encourage the CCC community to adopt the healthy habit of using the trail regularly. The event will take place rain or shine. All are welcome!