https://www.comoxvalleyartgallery.com

Wind Phone | A Project for the Community

JANET O’DELL — facilitator | ITARU SASAKI — artist-originator

WIND PHONE Interactive Installation | JANUARY 27 – MARCH 23 — George Sawchuk Gallery

The Wind Phone is for everyone who has lost a loved one.
The phone is an outlet for those who have messages they wish to share with their friends and family.
It is a phone for memories and saying the goodbyes you never got to say.


COMMUNITY FACILITATOR STATEMENT

As an End of Life Practitioner, I have witnessed the importance of connection and closure for both the dying and their loved ones. When I came across the concept of the ‘Wind Phone’, a phone booth in Japan created by Itaru Sasaki where people can make calls to their deceased loved ones, I was deeply moved. I knew that bringing a similar concept to the Comox Valley Community would provide a much-needed space for healing and reflection. The idea behind the Wind Phone is to offer a private space for individuals to have one final conversation or express their feelings to someone who has passed away. By providing this opportunity for communication, it allows for a sense of closure and a chance to say the things left unsaid. I believe that having a Wind Phone in our community can provide solace, comfort, and a place for catharsis for those dealing with grief and loss. It is my hope that this initiative will help individuals find a sense of peace and healing during such a difficult time.


BIOGRAPHY | Janet O’Dell, End of Life Practitioner / Death Doula

I help individuals navigate the challenging journey of death and dying. With a healthcare background and extensive training, I provide compassion, empathy, and expertise emotional, psychological, and practical support to both the dying person and their loved ones, making a profound difference in the lives of those nearing the end of their journey.


COMMUNITY SUPPORT

The community is welcomed to this safe space to speak to their deceased loved-ones. Take a moment to take a deep breath and be mindful that unexpected emotions and feelings may arise.
If this happens and you are feeling overwhelmed, please contact any one of the following resources:

BC Bereavement Hotline:
1-877-779-2223

Hope for Wellness Help Line –
For First Nations, Inuit, and Métis:
1-855-242-3310

Wellness Together Canada –
Speak to Mental Health Professionals:
Youth: 1-888-668-6810
Adult: 1-886-585-0445

Acknowledgements

The Comox Valley Art Gallery is grateful to operate on the Unceded Traditional Territory of the K’ómoks First Nations.

CVAG is honored to collaborate with artists, writers, guest curators, community partners + volunteers. We are grateful for the support of our members + donors.

This convergent program is made possible through the support of our FUNDERS: City of Courtenay, Canada Council for the Arts, BC Arts Council, Government of Canada, Province of BC,  Comox Valley Regional District, Town of Comox | LOCAL SUPPORT: School District 71 Printshop, Sherwin Williams, Hitec Screen Printing, Shine-Eze Ltd., BoomBright Media

           


Artist’s Website

Original Wind Phone + Wind Phones around the world — mywindphone.com
Janet O’Dell — Dynamic Journey Doula