Building an Internal Staircase

Drawing from therapeutic models such as Internal Family Systems and Play Therapy, the practice offers a means of giving form and expression to intangible parts of the self, values, hopes, and internal conflicts. The exercise is intended as a playful way of tracing the infinite variations of ourselves and the things we embody but do not consciously witness.

At the end of the workshop, participants can offer the sculptures with which Niwa creates an installation of hanging staircase.

You might be asking yourself, what sorts of foraged matter should I bring?

a small acorn chewed on by a squirrel, a handful of foraged mushrooms, a delicate, slender stick, the quill of a porcupine, uncooked pasta, salty pistachio shells, a humble banana, a wilting bouquet, un-popped popcorn, popped popcorn, a comical rose, one super long carrot, a leaf in the shape of a boot, an unripe watermelon, etc.

• For individuals age 8 and up.
• Places limited, free entry with registration by 9 July 2026.
• Participants accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Meeting point: Pavilion, Semra Ertan Garden
• Part of L is for the Way You Look at Me II