Summer storms have officially rolled in and The Wandering House stands sturdy amidst rain and shine. For half a month now, our brightly painted audio recording studio has welcomed nearly 70 participants and many more people have come to inquire about the project.
This past week at Bridge Square brought contemplative faces, including those of people who came to us several times before deciding they were ready to record. We are grateful for each and every interaction that takes place as people wait their turn to enter the house. It is inspiring to witness people’s curiosity and the thoughtfulness they bring to our questions about home and belonging. While participants often comment that the questions are not easy to tackle, they also express unequivocal gratitude for the opportunity to reflect and to share their views. Tales of migration, relocation, passing through, and even returning home to Northfield are exchanged within minutes of an invitation to take a peek at the house, or to ask questions about the project. Grandparents hold their grandchildren’s hands as they go inside, often noting both the cool comfortable air and the house’s proximity to the popcorn stand.
To the question: ‘When do you feel most at home?’ someone replied: “I know I’m home when I can take my shoes off.” This strikes a cord with us because what The Wandering House offers is precisely that: a moment for introspection and taking off your shoes. This past Saturday at Riverwalk, amidst food trucks and handmade artisan products, we saw how the doormats resting beside The Wandering House constantly cycled empty shoes, a clear signal that the house was filled. We are excited to continue to offer Northfielders of all walks of life a space for introspection and invite you to our upcoming wanderings around town (https://thewanderinghouse.com/calendar/).
Hoping to see many of you!