Today marks a month since The Wandering House rolled out and about through the streets of Northfield. It also signals the midpoint of our audio-collecting phase, which will conclude at the very end of August. We are humbled by the number and by the range of people that have taken part in this endeavor so far, and grateful for the many conversations that have illuminated and expanded our own perspectives on home and belonging.
Angelique Dietz, a long-time Northfield resident, brought a book she made by hand over twenty years ago that poses an evocative question: “When does a place become a home?” Using a playful style that resembles a children’s pop-up book, her work thoughtfully examines themes of inclusion, assimilation, and tolerance informed by her experience as an immigrant from the Netherlands. From clothing styles, to food, to the way people speak and look, Angelique’s book calls attention to our similarities and differences, as well as to the need to find home in the acceptance of the other.
Individuals who have always lived in the U.S. also question what it means to create a home in both philosophical and practical terms. An example of this willingness to challenge and expand notions of home is Stephanie Kubes who, like so many other people, approached us one day to ask whether we were part of the Tiny House Movement. While we are not, it’s been fascinating and inspiring to listen to folks like Stephanie who contemplate but also try out alternative ways of living. We highly recommend visiting her website so you can witness first hand Stephanie’s discoveries and accomplishments: https://www.twogirlsandatiny.com/ .
It is moving to us that The Wandering House can serve as a recording studio, an experimental home, a sanctuary of sorts where you can freely speak your mind, and also as a source of inspiration and affirmation to many. Our visitors have ranged from four-legged fluffy doggies to parents answering questions along with a full house of children. Newborn babies, school-age kids, college students, and 90 year-old charmers have stepped inside The Wandering House. But rather than staying put at Bridge Square, in the coming weeks The Wandering House will travel to multiple spots in Northfield. We aim to widen our scope so that everybody who wants to contribute to this project may do so. Don’t miss your chance to share your thoughts on home and belonging! Check out our website for further updates and follow our wanderings around town!