Dhunanand https://dhunanand.org Supporting Artists Serving the Planet Tue, 10 Oct 2023 22:55:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://dhunanand.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/cropped-DA-monogram-32x32.png Dhunanand https://dhunanand.org 32 32 The Importance of the Peatlands https://dhunanand.org/2023/08/26/the-importance-of-the-peatlands/ Sat, 26 Aug 2023 23:19:57 +0000 https://dhunanand.org/?p=20442

 “The Congo Basin’s peatlands are the world’s lungs. People say if the world exists, it’s because Congo is breathing,” says Joseph Lombo Bokanga in the article “What do the Protectors of Congo’s Peatlands Get in Return?” by West African bureau chief for the New York Times, Ruth Maclean. Although making up a small amount of Earth’s surface, peatlands store an unimaginable amount of carbon, contributing to the fight against global warming. However, the increasing problem of deforestation and future climate change is threatening this ability. If this problem becomes a reality, peatlands could contribute more to climate change by releasing more carbon than taken in. 

The peatlands give significantly to the Earth other than just absorbing carbon. It also provides safe, clean drinking water and food to nearby economies. In terms of safety, it minimizes the risk of floods. They lower temperatures in the surrounding areas and aren’t very likely to burn during wildfires. Overall, the Peatlands contribute to the high biodiversity on Earth.

The peatlands in the Congo Basin in west-central Africa

Peatlands are more valuable than what initially meets the eye, seeing that they “store more carbon than all other vegetation types in the world combined,” according to IUCN. With Earth’s current instability regarding climate issues, peatlands are already starting to become damaged and are becoming a massive source of greenhouse gas emissions, “responsible for almost 5% of global anthropogenic CO2 emissions”. 

Deforestation is already a problem that is escalating due to the demand for wood and other tree-related resources. However, this issue significantly impacts the peatlands. According to CarbonBrief, the “removal of trees from above peatlands can leave large areas of ground exposed to the sun, which can cause the boggy ground to dry out.” Carbon is now being freed at a more rapid pace. Currently, a ban permitting logging across areas of the peatlands has been instituted. However, plans to lift the ban in some countries are already being discussed according to CarbonBrief. This lift would have a tremendous increase in deforestation. In terms of climate change, global warming directly impacts precipitation. According to CarbonBrief, the peatlands could “experience an overall reduction in rainfall,” which is necessary for the peatlands to live and thrive.

Considering this information, it is essential that we combat this issue. Stopping activities such as agricultural conversion and deforestation would be a massive help to preserving the trees within the Peatlands. Implementing more bans on logging in the peatlands and supporting the protection of it, such as some nations like the UK have already done, will also help. Most importantly, the peatlands’ existence is unknown to most people, so educating others about why it is important to the well-being of Earth would make a huge difference– albeit a seemingly small step. 

The peatlands are too valuable to lose, especially with Earth’s rising climate change issues that only worsen over time. Ignoring the already escalating problems that directly impact the peatlands will only lead to our already contributing destruction of Earth. If we don’t take action, we might live to see the peatlands’ extinction soon enough.

by Ananya Mahadi

]]> Oceans Day Event https://dhunanand.org/2023/06/16/oceans-day-event/ Fri, 16 Jun 2023 03:12:40 +0000 https://dhunanand.org/?p=20404
In an inspiring display of environmental stewardship and community engagement, a beach cleanup event was organised in collaboration with artist Zach Pine and the employees of Workday. Combining creativity, teamwork, and a passion for the environment, this unique gathering aimed to clean the beach, create stunning sand globes, and construct an exciting racing track. The event showcased the incredible power of collective effort and the transformative potential of art in fostering a stronger community.

The event started off with participants gathered at the beach, with gloves, bags, and an unwavering commitment to preserving the natural beauty of the shoreline. Teams formed, and the enthusiastic volunteers scoured the beach, diligently picking up litter and debris that had been left behind. The collective effort was nothing short of remarkable, as participants moved together like a well-oiled machine, leaving no stone unturned. And after working hard cleaning each team of two gathered almost 20 bags of trash.

To infuse the event with a touch of artistic expression, Zach Pine joined the cleanup efforts. With a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature, the artist guided participants in creating intricate sand globes, transforming the beach into an outdoor gallery. Each participant had the opportunity to contribute their artistic flair, shaping unique sand sculptures that served as a testament to their love for the environment and their desire to protect it.

The beach cleanup event, enhanced by the collaboration with an artist and the active participation of Workday employees, left an indelible mark on both the environment and the community. Through the creation of mesmerising sand globes, the restoration of the beach’s natural beauty, and the construction of a thrilling racing track, this event showcased the immense potential of art in bringing people together and instilling a sense of responsibility towards our planet. It served as a reminder that by combining our collective efforts and harnessing our creativity, we can make a significant positive impact on our environment and foster a stronger, more closely-knit community.

Message from Zach Pine


Thanks so much to everyone for including me in the beach event yesterday! I really appreciated everyone’s enthusiasm in trying new things and working and playing together!

As promised, here are some links:

My site Sand Globes Worldwide https://www.sandglobes.org/ includes a short “how-to-video” and recent instagram posts with #sandglobe creativity from around the world. I hope you’ll try making sand globes on a beach with good sand such as Crissy Field (at higher tides), Ocean Beach in SF, and Stinson Beach, and that you’ll teach others and send me some photos!

My new project Beach Propellers Worldwide https://www.beachpropellers.org/ includes printable “how-to-video” instructions, a short video, some games, and recent instagram posts with #beachpropellers. I hope you’ll make and play on beach propellers, teach others, and send me some photos!

For sand castle-making, I suggest joining in the “Community Castle” as described at the bottom of this page under “Build”: http://leapsandcastleclassic.org/register/ . The event is amazing, and I’ve often been part of the Community Castle effort.

If you want to stay in touch, or hear about upcoming free public events, you can join my email list here: https://www.zpcreatewithnature.com/contact–mailing-list.html

]]> DhunAnand Foundation Celebrates International Plastic Free Day https://dhunanand.org/2023/05/24/dhunanand-foundation-celebrates-international-plastic-free-day/ Wed, 24 May 2023 23:13:38 +0000 https://dhunanand.org/?p=20358

San Ramon, California, USA – The Mission BlueHeart team of DhunAnand Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on supporting artists serving the planet, celebrated International Plastic Free Day by convening a panel to raise awareness about plastic pollution in the ocean.

 

International Plastic Free Day is observed on May 25th each year. The day aims to raise awareness about the harmful effects of plastic pollution and encourages individuals and communities to reduce their plastic consumption. It suggests various ways to participate, such as refusing single-use plastics, recycling properly, and promoting sustainable alternatives. 

 

“We must address the plastic pollution crisis to protect our oceans and safeguard the future of marine life,” said Isabella Demiroska, DhunAnand Youth Leader and one of the founding members of the Mission BlueHeart team. “When I am surrounded by groups of people who share the same goal, I feel empowered and want to carry on. This is how I feel with Mission BlueHeart and the Plastic Free Day event! “

 

The International Plastic Free Day panel will serve as a platform for meaningful discussions on practical solutions to combat plastic waste and foster a more sustainable future. Plastic pollution poses significant challenges for our oceans and marine ecosystems. It is estimated that millions of tons of plastic waste enter our oceans each year, resulting in severe consequences for marine life and habitats. 

 

“It is the masses of people all doing the wasteful things at once, so we have to look to the companies and the leaders to help create an environment where we as individuals can make better choices,” said Fontain Riddle, singer-songwriter and an advocate for plastic-free living. Further, she emphasized the collective responsibility to drive change: “Plastic Free Day serves as a reminder that by reducing our plastic consumption and encouraging sustainable alternatives, we can make a tangible difference in preserving our oceans.”

 

DhunAnand invites individuals, organizations, and concerned citizens to join the Plastic Free Day event and be part of the global movement towards a plastic-free world. Together, we can make a difference in protecting our environment for future generations.

 

About DhunAnand:

 

DhunAnand Foundation is a California-based nonprofit organization that supports artists who are serving the planet.  Our Ambassadors of Oneness bring artists together with scientists and activists.  Mission #BlueDove and #Artists4Ukraine projects aim to raise awareness and inspire action for peace and freedom. Mission #BlueHeart aims to raise awareness of ocean conservation. #BreathingRoom project provides paid opportunities and monthly stipends for committed artists.

]]> Merging Art and Environmental Activism with Zach Pine https://dhunanand.org/2023/05/20/merging-art-and-environmental-activism-with-zach-pine/ Sat, 20 May 2023 21:04:21 +0000 https://dhunanand.org/?p=20345

As passionate art enthusiasts and members of Mission Blue Heart, we were fortunate enough to sit down with the immensely talented artist, Zach Pine. In our enlightening conversation, Pine showcased a whole new way of merging art with eco-friendly practices, particularly through his innovative work involving sand. Moreover, he shared insights into his community programs aimed at inspiring environmental consciousness and fostering a sense of community. Pine’s unique perspective and philosophy left us captivated and inspired.

Zach Pine’s artistry goes beyond aesthetics; it encompasses a profound purpose. Through his art, he engages in beach cleaning initiatives, utilising sand as his medium. Pine’s intricate craftsmanship results in mesmerising shapes and innovative sand globes, capturing the essence of the environment while raising awareness about the importance of protecting it. His artistic expression becomes a catalyst for environmental stewardship, urging viewers to take action and cherish the beauty of our planet.

During our conversation, Pine enlightened us about the San Francisco Children & Nature events he organises. These events bring the community together, providing a platform for engaging younger generations in environmental causes. By involving them in hands-on activities like beach cleaning and sand art workshops, Pine nurtures a sense of responsibility and connection to nature, instilling a lifelong commitment to preserving the environment.

Pine’s background as a scientist shines through in his approach to art and community involvement. He described how, as a scientist, he would gather data, form hypotheses, and test them. Similarly, he views his community events as experiments, gauging the impact on participants’ perspectives before and after the experience. Pine’s hypothesis is proven right when he witnesses the transformative effect his events have on individuals, reaffirming the power of art as a tool for positive change.

One aspect of Pine’s philosophy that resonated deeply with us is his belief that everyone possesses the spirit of an artist. In his view, creativity takes various forms, whether it be through painting, music, writing, or other avenues. Pine’s inclusive perspective encourages individuals to tap into their creative potential, fostering a sense of empowerment and reminding us that artistry can manifest in diverse and unexpected ways.

Our conversation with Zach Pine left an indelible impression on us. Pine’s innovative blend of art and environmental activism, as well as his dedication to community engagement, highlighted the immense power of art as a force for positive change. His sand artistry not only captivates viewers but also inspires them to become stewards of the environment. Pine’s philosophy that every individual possesses artistic abilities reinforced the notion that creativity knows no bounds. Through his work and community initiatives, Pine has crafted a profound legacy that encourages us all to embrace our inner artist and contribute to a better world.

]]> DhunAnand Foundation to Celebrate Vyshyvanka Spirit With Qurterly #VyshsyvankaLove Seminars With in Collaboration with NGO World Vyshyvanka Day https://dhunanand.org/2023/05/14/dhunanand-foundation-to-celebrate-vyshyvanka-spirit-with-qurterly-vyshsyvankalove-seminars-with-in-collaboration-with-ngo-world-vyshyvanka-day/ Sun, 14 May 2023 00:17:07 +0000 https://dhunanand.org/?p=20312 San Ramon, California, USA – The DhunAnand Foundation is pleased to announce quarterly #VyshyvankaLove Seminars in collaboration with the NGO, World Vyshyvanka Day, to celebrate Ukrainian culture and tradition through the spirit of Vyshyvanka. The seminars will feature a diverse group of artists and activists who will help spread the spirit of Vyshyvanka.

The Vyshyvanka is an iconic garment that has been an integral part of Ukrainian culture for centuries. The intricate embroidery patterns on the shirt represent various aspects of Ukrainian life, such as nature, religion, and mythology. The Vyshyvanka has also been a symbol of resistance, strength, love, freedom and national identity throughout Ukraine’s history.

The #VyshyvankaLove Seminars are aimed at share Vyshyvanka spirit with the world in a sustainable manner over the year. Through these seminars, the DhunAnand Foundation and World Vyshyvanka Day hope to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of Ukrainian culture and traditions. The seminars will cover a range of topics, including the history and significance of the Vyshyvanka, the techniques and materials used in embroidery, the different styles and designs of the garment, and most importantly the spirit of Vyshyvanka.

“The spirit of Vyshyvanka, the traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirt, is rooted in Ukrainian culture, but the love and strength it represents is a universal gift for all of humanity,” said Shivpreet Singh Kapoor, founder of DhunAnand Foundation. “We are looking forward to partnering with the World Vyshyvanka Day to help artists inspire a diverse group of people. We envision these webinars will provide a platform for cross-cultural dialogue and understanding. With quarterly seminars our aim is to share the spirit of Vyshyvanka throughout the year.”

The #VyshyvankaLove seminars will be conducted virtually, allowing participants from all over the world to attend, and will be posted on the social media pages of partnered organizations for diverse distribution. They will feature experts and artists from diverse backgrounds, including artists, musicians, journalists, activists, historians, fashion designers, and embroidery artists. 

“We are pleased to work with DhunAnand to spread the spirit of Vyshyvanka with artists from around the world,” said Lesya Voroniuk, founder of Vyshyvanka Day. “Vyshyvanka is a language of Ukrainian culture. Each stitch tells a story of our history, values, and traditions. It expresses our identity, connects us to our community, and reminds us of our heritage. Love weaves its own unique patterns, transcending cultural boundaries, bringing joy and comfort. Passed down from generation to generation, love is a treasure that enriches our lives and connects us to those we hold dear. Vyshyvanka is a way of expressing our identity and individuality, while also connecting us to our community and ancestors. It is a symbol of strength and resilience, passed down from generation to generation, and a reminder of the beauty and power of our traditions. Vyshyvanka is not just a fashion statement, it is a living legacy, and a treasure of our Ukrainian heritage.”

Snippets from the first seminar will be available on our social media this week and subsequent seminars will be held quarterly. The DhunAnand Foundation welcomes interested individuals and organizations to participate in these seminars and help share the spirit of Vyshyvanka with the world. 

How Can You Help – Use the Hashtag #VyshyvankaLove

DhunAnand Foundation plans to post Vyshyvanka related media on Instagram and Facebook from May 14 to May 21 with the hashtag #VyshyvankaLove. There are many ways to participate in the Vyshyvanka campaign and help us spread the love for this traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirt. Here are a few ideas:

  • Follow Our Social Media: Stay up-to-date on the latest Vyshyvanka news and events by following us on social media. You can find us on Instagram and Facebook.
  • Send Us Your Art: We would love to see your Vyshyvanka-inspired creations. Send us your art, photos, poetry, music, videos or any creative work and we may feature them on our social media channels.
  • Use #VyshyvankaLove hashtag: Help us spread the word by making your own social media posts using the #VyshyvankaLove hashtag. Share your favorite Vyshyvanka photos, stories, or designs. A select group of posts tagged with #VyshyvankaLove will be awarded.
  • Share Vyshyvanka Posts: If you see a Vyshyvanka-related post that you like, please share it with your friends and followers. The most liked Instagram post with the hashtag #VyshyvankaLove will be awarded the #VyshyvankaLove award.
  • Wear Vyshyvanka: Take a photo of yourself wearing any Vyshyvanka related garment and share it on social media using the hashtag #VyshyvankaLove.
  • Contact Us: If you are an artist or organization who wants to participate in the campaign, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are always looking for new partners and collaborators who share our passion for Vyshyvanka.
]]> DhunAnand Foundation Celebrates Earth Day by Highlighting Artists Focused on Raising Awareness About Climate Change and Peace https://dhunanand.org/2023/04/24/dhunanand-foundation-celebrates-earth-day-by-highlighting-artists-focused-on-raising-awareness-about-climate-change-and-peace/ Mon, 24 Apr 2023 19:43:35 +0000 https://dhunanand.org/?p=20293 Nine #BlueHeart and Five #Artists4Ukraine Artists’ Work Included

San Ramon, California – April 24, 2023 – DhunAnand Foundation, a nonprofit organization focused on supporting artists who are serving the planet, celebrated Earth Day this weekend by highlighting art from fourteen artists who are raising awareness about climate change and peace on earth.

“At DhunAnand Foundation, we believe that art and awareness are essential to promoting peace and protecting our planet.” said Shivpreet Singh, founder of DhunAnand Foundation, commenting on the foundation’s mission and the importance of Earth Day. “We are supporting artists who are tackling the most difficult challenges faced by humanity through two of our youth-led projects: mission #BlueHeart tackles climate change while #Artists4Ukraine focuses on peace and freedom. By supporting artists and raising awareness about these critical issues, we hope to inspire change and create a better future for all.”

Mission #BlueHeart is a project that focuses on raising awareness and inspiring action for saving our oceans and marine life. For Earth Day, DhunAnand Youth Leader and volunteer Fate Chen created a collage from art and photos of nine artists and remarked, “Through this hearty collage, we want to honor the artists who are raising awareness and empathy among viewers by showcasing the breathtaking beauty of marine life and their habitats, which are threatened by the negative impacts of climate change, pollution, overfishing, and habitat destruction.” For more information please see mission BlueHeart’s Earth Day Post. 

#Artists4Ukraine is a project focused on supporting artists who support freedom and peace in Ukraine. By striving for peace and freedom, Artists4Ukraine are helping to create an environment where nations can work together to develop and implement solutions to these challenges, and where individuals are empowered to take action to protect the planet. Artists highlighted by #Artists4Ukraine included @juliakoval_art (shown on the press release), @mosyakart, @yellow_based_rainbow, @pollypop92 and @35lviv. For more information please see Artist4Ukraine’s Earth Day Post. 

DhunAnand Foundation is committed to working towards inspiring a sustainable future for all, and this Earth Day celebration is just one step in that direction. 

For more information on DhunAnand Foundation and their work, visit their website at https://www.dhunanand.org.

]]> DhunAnand Founder Led Meditative Kirtan at Chapman University https://dhunanand.org/2023/04/12/dhunanand-founder-led-meditative-kirtan-at-chapman-university/ Wed, 12 Apr 2023 20:28:46 +0000 https://dhunanand.org/?p=20206

Shivpreet Singh, the founder of DhunAnand, participated in the Vaisakhi event at Chapman College on April 11th at 6:30 PM. He joined Jasbir S Kang, MD, from Yuba City, California, who presented the topic of “Becoming American: The Journey of Sikhs to America.”

Shivpreet Singh led a Meditative Kirtan during the event and performed “Garland of Guru Nanak.” Participants had the chance to explore spirituality and learn about the interconnectedness of all things. Shivpreet reflected on the significance of spring, flowers, Khalsa, and their relevance to Guru Nanak’s teachings.

Furthermore, Dr. Jasjit Ahuja and Dr. Gurpreet Ahuja gave a firsthand account of their recent experiences on the Sikhlens Heritage Tour to Pakistan. They provided valuable insights into the history and culture of the Sikh community in Pakistan.

]]> Deep-Sea Octopus Nursery https://dhunanand.org/2023/04/03/deep-sea-octopus-nursery/ Mon, 03 Apr 2023 00:38:21 +0000 https://dhunanand.org/?p=20178

The discovery of the world’s largest deep-sea octopus nursery has only ever been found once before and has shocked many scientists. Researchers found almost 1,000 deep-sea octopus nurseries off the shore of Costa Rica in an area called the dorado outcrop. The researchers found thousands of octopus eggs on the ocean floor; some were brooding. They discovered the octopuses near secluded underwater ridges and mountains. Film that was captured of the octopuses taking care of their young and feeding, significantly contirbutes to understanding octopus reproductive behavior. Since deep-sea octopuses are challenging to research due to their isolated location, there needs to be more information on them. This finding will help conservation efforts to save the diversity of the ocean by providing information on the behavior of these organisms.

]]> DhunAnand to Celebrate #BlueHeart Whale Day on February 26 https://dhunanand.org/2022/02/18/dhunanand-to-celebrate-blueheart-whale-day-on-february-26/ Fri, 18 Feb 2022 17:45:19 +0000 https://dhunanand.org/?p=19736 #BlueHeart Campaign Begins With Whale Day Celebration 

 

DhunAnand Foundation is celebrating the #BlueHeart Whale Day on February 26 at 10AM PST in collaboration with Ocean Conservation Research. This marks the beginning of the #BlueHeart Campaign in which we will bring together selected artists, scientists, entrepreneurs and activists from around the world to protect our common #BlueHeart, the oceans of the planet. This campaign is being run by a team of teenagers including Arshiya Singh, Jania Kapoor and Unnat Singh.

2

 

Luminaries and Artists From 4 Continents Included in First Event

The event includes an Ocean Conservation discussion with a panel of guests and some pre-recorded videos.  Luminaries included in the panel for the #BlueHeart Whale Day celebration include the Executive Director of Ocean Conservation Research Michael Stocker, award-winning book-writer Liz Cunningham, multidisciplinary EcoArtist Evelyn Roth, whale performance artist Diana Marto, whale intuitive and author June Sananjaleen Hughes, singer-songwriter Fontain Riddle,  and “whalegirl” Shannon McLaughlin.  Several other artists, including Alexis Harte, Janapriyan Levine, Karim Iliya, Katarina Koprivc, Kirk Kadish, and Marin Solow have contributed their art, music and advice for this event.

Planned #BlueHeart Events

The #BlueHeart campaign will continue to raise awareness about our planet’s #BlueHeart through events, and by inspiring artists to create #BlueHeart art. Future events include the #BlueHeart Poetry Day (in collaboration with Kaavya connections, featuring poetry from Stanford Professor Linda Hess, and music by Rajesh Prasanna), #BlueHeart Earth Day in India (in collaboration with FICCI FLO, featuring Roohani Sisters), and #BlueHeart Ocean Day (in collaboration with Workday in Pleasanton, CA). 



26
Feb


#BlueHeart Whale Day

10:00 AM PST
Online
Read More


19
Mar


#BlueHeart Poetry Day

9:00 AM PST
Online
Read More


12
Apr


#BlueHeart Earth Day

9:00 AM PST
Online
Read More


04
Jun


#BlueHeart Ocean Day

9:00 AM PST
Online
Read More

#BlueHeart Campaign Begins With Whale Day Celebration 

DhunAnand Foundation is celebrating the #BlueHeart Whale Day on February 26 at 10AM PST in collaboration with Ocean Conservation Research. This marks the beginning of the #BlueHeart Campaign in which we will bring together selected artists, scientists, entrepreneurs and activists from around the world to protect our common #BlueHeart, the oceans of the planet. This campaign is being run by a team of teenagers including Arshiya Singh, Jania Kapoor and Unnat Singh.

How to Participate in the #BlueHeart Campaign

The simplest way to participate in the #BlueHeart Campaign will be to become a #BlueHeart Ambassador of Oneness. As a #BlueHeart Ambassador you take a pledge to be mindful of our common #BlueHeart. Ambassadors who can devote time to help the team over the next year are welcome to join the #BlueHeart Council.  During the event, we will formulate the first #BlueHeart Council which will meet once a quarter and provide strategic guidance for the campaign.  If you are interested in joining the #BlueHeart Team, Council or for more information about the event, please email Arshiya Singh.

Become a #BlueHeart Ambassador

Pledge to be mindful of our shared oceans, the #BlueHeart of the planet

By becoming a #BlueHeart Ambassador, you agree to be get on our email list. We will send you one simple task every month and remind you of the pledge you took to to protect our oceans. The task can be as simple as not using plastics for two days.  We will never share your name or email with anyone.  You will easily be able to unsubscribe if you no longer with to be on the list. 

]]> DhunAnand to Align Projects With United Nations Sustainable Development Goals https://dhunanand.org/2021/10/18/dhunanand-to-align-projects-with-united-nations-sustainable-development-goals/ Mon, 18 Oct 2021 06:37:00 +0000 https://dhunanand.org/?p=19668 DhunAnand had decided earlier this year to work on media projects that foster oneness by raising awareness and inspiring action on humanity’s shared goals. A good starting point for “shared goals” is are the 17 sustainable development goals adopted by United Nation member states in 2015. So DhunAnand focuses on projects that raise awareness for or inspire action to reduce inequalities, fight poverty, hunger, conflict, disease and illiteracy, spur economic growth and tackle climate change. In 2022, we will focusing our efforts especially on projects about climate change and oceans (SDG 13 and 14) given the immense need for awareness and action in this area.

]]>