TWELVE

An ongoing project dedicated to documenting Japan’s botanical micro-seasons and the subtle changes in plant life over twelve months. TWELVE aims to heighten awareness of a single moment in time — its climate, its plant life — while gently reconnecting us with the natural rhythm of the seasons.

Vivienne observes the small changes in nature during the year, capturing each season. Unlike the traditional four seasons which the western world uses to divide the calendar, Japan celebrates 72 different micro-seasons. There are 24 major divisions, starting in early February in Spring. Each of the 24 divisions are split into 3. They form the 72 micro seasons each lasting around five days. Each season has its own name and colour. The sections were written in 1685 by the astronomer, Shibukawa Shunkai. He presents a poetic journey through life.

These observations inform all of Vivienne’s ongoing projects. By moving attentively, a sensibility grounded in reciprocity is cultivated. In this quiet experience, the boundary between self and nature softens and an awareness grows.

This project allows to see that environmental consciousness can emerge in a gentle way, through presence and appreciation. By attuning ourselves to subtle transformations, we can cultivate our responsibilities, and maybe find ways how we can act with more care.

... 'seeds of seasonal plants can only continue to produce more trees and other botanicals in a world where the seasons change with some reliability. Today our climate is changing, bringing an unprecedented level of unpredictability all across the seasonal world. The question is, can we curb climate change sufficiently to ensure that the seasons will continue? Only if we can do that will the future of seasonal plants be assured.' David Attenborough