Join us for an evening featuring three artists and culture bearers: shaman and publisher Seo Choi; poet, artist, and gardener Meesha Goldberg; and artist Na Mira. All three engage with contemporary Shamanistic practices, each with distinct processes and outcomes. Join us as we discuss their practices which are informed by ancient texts such as Budoji, the legacy of shamans such as Kim Keum-Hwa, a spiritual connection to land and ancestors, and a rejection of dogmatic tradition. The program will include presentations on each participant's artistic practices, followed by a discussion.

At the heart of the discussion lies an imaginative approach to creating connections and practicing ancestral Korean traditions. The participants will explore the concept of in-between spaces, where the blending of diverse heritages and multiple cultures gives rise to innovative methods and unique perspectives. This discussion on Korean American creativity and new Shamanistic practices will explore the translation of ancestral legacies, showcasing the transformative power of cultural synthesis. Central to the conversation is the demystification of expectations surrounding the practice of Korean Shamanism. By encouraging a nuanced understanding, the event aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the expanding tapestry of cultural practices within the Korean diaspora.

Meesha Goldberg will share from Daughterland (2022), a short experimental film documenting the enshrining of an ancient oak on the 38th parallel in Virginia. Additionally, Na Mira will share from Tesseract (test), 2021. A scene from Park Chan-kyong’s film Manshin: Ten Thousand Spirits, will precede Seo Choi’s presentation on her publishing practice and forthcoming English translation of world renowned Korean shaman Kim Keum-Hwa’s biography I Have Come on a Lonely Path: Memoir of a Shaman.

GYOPO invites participants to reflect on the intricate relationship between individuals and their ancestral lands, embracing a holistic and inclusive approach to cultural exploration. Our discussion will encourage a celebration of diversity, fostering connections that transcend geographical boundaries and constraints, while inspiring a renewed appreciation for the beauty of imaginative and creative cultural spirituality.

Between Worlds: Art and Shamanism in the Korean Diaspora

with Seo Choi, Meesha Goldberg and Na Mira