Studies in Sanctuary

In these times, we need sanctuaries of attention more than ever. But what is a "sanctuary of attention"? What forms can it take? What forms of togetherness do we foster inside of our attention sanctuaries, and what forces do we keep out?

Join us for a three-way collaborative study session (and celebration!). We'll examine the theory and practice of ATTENTION SANCTUARY through the lens of:

• ARCHITECTURE & SPACEMAKING with Social Lubricant Architecture Media (SLAM);

• GATHERING & EVENT DESIGN with Vybe Collective; and

• PRACTICE & FACILITATION with the School of Radical Attention.

SLAM's Cam My Nguyen will lead hands-on, participatory design charrette exploring what an Attention Sanctuary might look like architecturally. Together, we'll use collaborative design thinking — with trace paper, collage, and communal drawing materials — to imagine and visualize spaces “to nourish and build attentional capacities.”

Vybe Collective's Dija Manly will lead discussion on the ways that intentional event design can transform a gathering into a sacred space. Through design thinking activities and collaborative art-making, we'll study how forms of mobile sanctuary can be cultivated in community — wherever you go.

SoRA's facilitators will lead Practices of Attention and group discussions on the artistic and political traditions that undergird our work. How can we draw on diverse genealogies of practice to create new and inclusive forms of attentional togetherness?

Collaborating partners:

Based in Oakland and NYC, Vybe Collective is an event collective that aims to foster deep community connection. Grounded in principles of continuous iteration and mutual aid, Vybe aims to center our most marginalized community members to create spaces that are accessible and joyous to everyone.

SLAM (Social Lubricant Architecture Media) is an emerging practice designing space for social connectivity across scales including events, furniture, architecture, and theory. SLAM designers and artists cultivate curious connections through design, art, and events.