The Futures We Create
Collective Imagination for Hope

This is a self-led project in collaboration with Savannah Vize and Sara Dangelo

Founder: Taike

Other collaborators:
Tunne ry

Year: 2020- Present

BACKGROUND

Society is currently facing two critical crises: a crisis of imagination and a crisis of hope. These crises are inextricably linked to the climate emergency and its far-reaching consequences. In a world where images of violence, oppression, occupation, and environmental devastation are broadcast in real-time across our devices, we are confronted with a sobering reality. This constant stream of content contributes to a growing sense of hopelessness about the future, which increasingly feels uncertain and dystopian.

Scientists have coined the term "eco-emotions"—otherwise known as eco-anxiety, climate grief or climate anxiety—to describe the complex emotions that emerge as a consequence of the climate crisis, and the global inaction. Research indicates that while these emotions share similarities with depression and anxiety, they require a distinct approach for effective management. One of the core challenges associated with these emotions is the sense of isolation, often leading individuals to feel as though they are alone in their experiences. A powerful antidote to this isolation is to be able to share and express these emotions, exploring their origins and manifestations in our lives (especially in community, as we share these complex feelings and relate to others).

PROJECT

This project aims to create a space where participants can engage with their emotions about the future in a supportive, imaginative, and playful environment. Through immersive workshop experiences, we guide participants on a journey that allows them to unpack the emotional weight they carry, reconnect with a sense of hopefulnes for the world, and envision the future they long for. Drawing inspiration from Joanna Macy’s Work That Reconnects, the process integrates psychological principles and creative imagination methods to facilitate self-reflection and collective visioning.

The structure of the workshop helps participants articulate the change they wish to see and co-create a shared vision, demonstrating that the future they envision is not beyond reach. By doing so, we aim to cultivate agency and hope, reinforcing the belief that without the ability to imagine a different future, meaningful change cannot occur.

The project is ongoing and is envisioned as a multi-year initiative. It seeks to foster connections and collaborations with other practitioners who share a similar commitment to addressing eco-emotions and building collective resilience in the face of the climate crisis.

Collaborators

Ekata Theatre – providing expertise in improvisation and theatrical methods

INSPIRATION

We recognise that we cannot do this work, without the previous work of others. Therefore we acknowledge the people that have supported our thinking in this process. And if you are curious, we invite you to dive into the knowledge and teachings of:

This project is supported by Taike, the Arts Promotion Centre Finland.