Ark: In Search of Surrender
Ark is a participatory immersive experience with music, art & architecture that explores the potential for communal healing and connection
Date and time
Location
918 Bathurst St
918 Bathurst Street Toronto, ON M5R 3G5 CanadaAbout this event
- Event lasts 4 hours
Join us for an immersive experience involving a ritual ceremony, led by O D U D U. Participants are encouraged to bring personal artifacts, such as letters, jewelry or photographs, as offerings.
Guided by a live musical performance, the ritual begins with a choreographed procession from the symbolic "Village" to the "Shrine"; a striking 13-foot-tall sculpture meticulously crafted by the architect. There, selected participants will exchange their offerings for a Seed which they will sanctify with water - a metaphor for the nurturing cycle of life.
A communal gathering will follow, offering space for reflection, feedback, and connection, with music and an intimate conversation to close the evening.
In many traditions, an ark is a sacred vessel, offering refuge, transformation, and survival during times of uncertainty. In the context of this experience, Ark represents both a physical and metaphorical journey of healing, as well as a sanctuary—a safe space for exploration, reflection and connection. Additionally, every individual who participates in this ceremony becomes an Ark in their own way. They carry the vessel both with them and within them—the potential for inner transformation and the shared memory of the experience, which they will pass on to friends and family after the event. The experience is also a vehicle for preserving and transmitting Indigenous African wisdom, inviting participants to embark on a collective voyage toward healing and unity.
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Frequently asked questions
Your offering should be something precious and personal, small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. It could be an item tied to a meaningful memory or a symbol of what you are willing to give. Note that your offering will become part of the exhibition.
We encourage attendees to wear neutral or nude-toned clothing to reflect the ceremonial nature of the event. Choose something comfortable, simple, and minimal, to allow you to fully engage and be present in the moment.
The ritual is not tied to any specific religion, it is an inclusive, spiritual experience. The experience is designed to be immersive, so your active involvement is essential to the flow and energy.
To preserve the intimacy of the ceremony, we kindly ask that you refrain from taking photos or videos during the ritual. There will be opportunities for photos before the event commences and during the gathering afterwards.