Masumi Saito

Postcard

 

 Postcard

Since the beginning of the third UK lockdown, I have been working on a new short film project, Postcards. 
It began with my search to stay connected and creative with my friends and fellow artists remotely. I had to find a way to feed that hunger for human interaction. 

What I have been missing the most during this pandemic is time in the studio. We inspire each other by bouncing ideas back and forth, and they validate who I am. It started as an attempt to communicate in the best way I know. Words on screen or through devices weren't merely enough to convey my thoughts. There weren’t enough Emoji to describe my need. 

Just like my other ongoing project, 'Movement Diary', it also follows simple instructions. I send my fellow artists a 30sec movement postcard with a stable camera. They respond with their nonverbal postcard depending on their medium, with each postcard dedicated to the receiver in terms of look, composition, place, movement and tempo. Sometimes I recreate a memory we share or express what I want to tell them, just like writing a letter.  After this exchange, I put both videos together side-by-side, creating a 1-minute video. Each response has been magnificent, and the result has been beyond my expectations. 

Moreover, they have all appreciated my creative invitation. It has been described as a saviour as it has given them a positive focus. Not only the result but also the process has opened up a much more in-depth conversation. 

Ongoing since February 2021

With Nando Messias

Our relationship lay beyond the mirrors, lighting, fabulous makeup and costumes. We have so many shared memories.

I don't want to give everything away in this blurb; that would miss the point of this exchange, but I felt so connected when I saw our postcard together. Tears ran down my cheeks. It warmed my heart like I was actually hugging him. This postcard tells our stories beautifully, and I can't appreciate our friendship enough.

Nando Messias
Performance Artist
London
http://www.nandomessias.com/

 

Anna Lewenhaupt

Oh, Anna. We've been living far away from each other longer than we've actually spent time together. But when we are together, we share the most vivid, intense and unforgettable moments. We create a chaotic yet delicate world together.


Anna Lewenhaupt
Artist, performer and illustrator
Sweden
https://www.instagram.com/anahime/

 

Yen-Ching Lin

Her strong presence drew me when I saw her moves amongst many dancers at an audition. She can tell stories and create a world without words. I'm so honoured she responded to my postcard.

Yen-Ching Lin
Dancer, Performance Artist
UK
instagram.com/yenchinglin624/

 

Jordan Hunt

I don't know where to start. We've been through a lot together, not just professionally but also as friends—one of my oldest collaborator and long term inspirations. Jordan's response was so unique, and it conveys our stories beautifully.

Jordan Hunt
composer, singer and multi-instrumentalist
London
https://www.jordan-hunt.com/

 

Takeshi Matsumoto

I met Takeshi in Vienna when we both took the Butoh workshop with Ko Murobushi in 2007. Then we saw each other in India. We don't see each other regularly, but our encounters are always unique and somewhat intertwined. He is a tree to me. Strong rooted and gently observing.

Takeshi Matsumoto
Dance Artist
London
sevencircles.one


 

Davin King

When I received a response from him, I got emotional. We used to be in each other's life so closely, but now there are so many things I don't know about my friend's life and journey. But this little exchange reminded me that is Ok because we still care about each other.


Davin King
Lisboa, Portugal
https://www.instagram.com/davin_made_it

 

Aya Udagawa

This is the first time we created something together. This collaboration has opened up a much deeper dialogue between us. Her playful response describes our friendship well, and her dedication to this project warmed my heart.

Aya Udagawa
Artist
https://www.ayaudagawa.com/

 

Nissa Nishikawa

Trees, land, the smell of soil, sense of breeze, and ancestry is what I always think of Nissa. I believe we are more deeply connected than we are aware of—incredible human beings and beautiful responses in stunning locations.

 

Nissa Nishikawa
Artist / Translator for Nature
http://www.nissa-nishikawa.com/

 

THEO TJ LOWE

Relatively recent but growing friendship. Our gentle exchange has filled me with gratitude. Very grounded energy and maturity, which I learn a lot from. Thank you for the inspiration.

 

Theo TJ Lowe
https://www.instagram.com/theo__tj__lowe/

 

Yoshifumi Morita

My first postcard exchange from my friend in Japan. He specifically chose this spot as I've not been able to go home for a long time now. Noisy cicadas made me smile and homesick. I felt like I could almost smell my homeland. When can I go home and see all my people?

 
 

Will Menter

The second time we collaborated remotely. This was a humble and soothing exchange. You know sometimes we don't have to share everything about your life but want to see how they are doing?

 

Will Menter
Artist, musician and sound sculptor.
France
www.willmenter.com/



 

Gareth P Jones

Our kids are in the same class.
It's so lovely to meet other parents who can share creativity and inspire other than just talking about kids and school! This exchange had opened up more profound conversations.


 

Gareth P. Jones
Author & Performer
garethwrites.co.uk/

 

Sarah Moore

Her presence brightens the room up. She is a storyteller and full of joy. I admire her positivity and caring personality. I certainly need more Sarah Moore time in my life!


 

Sarah Moore
Figs in Wigs (figsinwigs.com/)