.sculpting experiential diversity

How is ceramic art a medium and outlet to proliferate experiential diversity and honor/educate social justice?

Broadening my perspective while exposing myself to the beauty of others’ perspectives is the core of a philosophy I title “Experiential Diversity.” To live this philosophy, I believe I must be intentional about connecting to differences all around me. While capturing the human figure and my version of the natural soul, I practiced both abstract and realistic techniques, I started by symbolizing important hot-button topics in social justice, then revised and additionally developed symbolism in depicting healthy outlets of conflict resolution.

Part of my philosophy of Experiential Diversity comes from the wide range of people and cultures I was exposed to by traveling with my family. As I became old enough to process all these travels, I understood that our experiences shape our values, and how we behave and interact with the world around us. I learned that my diverse experiences helped me reduce my biases and my ignorance. Most importantly, I understood that I am privileged by the expanse of these travels and the ease with which I could navigate them as a white male.

My privilege is much of what motivates me. I feel distraught that access to the people and places outside our immediate surroundings is not available to everyone. Therefore, not everyone has the opportunity to challenge their personal biases and grow their perspectives. Much of this is due to systemic inequities that are deep-rooted in our culture. Understanding this lit a fire under me to take action on something that can make change today, while we simultaneously combat the deeper systemic issues. I wondered, how could I help others embrace Experiential Diversity knowing that currently in our world it is much easier for me to find this philosophy than it is for others dealing with more obstacles. The place I felt I could start is by helping others understand that even in the minute parts of life, intentionally embracing the philosophy of Experiential Diversity will allow one to see the value and beauty of others’ perspectives and experiences.

It is easy for me to say this because I have been in a privileged place my whole life where a diverse set of experiences were given to me. But, having a diverse set of experiences is different than embracing Experiential Diversity. During my travels, I was intentional about embracing the newness I was experiencing. I could have gone to the same places and met the same people, but without my curious mindset, I would have had nowhere near the same growth. This is when I realized that Experiential Diversity can be applied to the minute parts of life.

Even if you are never able to travel outside your neighborhood or culture, you can embrace Experiential Diversity in little, everyday ways. When practicing Experiential Diversity in the minute parts of life, we become more comfortable embracing it and will set the standard to live by the beliefs of open-mindedness when more important, difficult, or uncomfortable situations arise.