The Edge of Beginning Again

Þingvellir National Park, located at the boundary of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates, offers a unique vantage point to explore the concept of 'living on the edge.' This study examines how the visible fracture of Earth's lithosphere in this 7-km-wide rift valley serves as a metaphor for humanity's current state—standing at the brink of profound change, both exciting and uncertain. The research delves into the idea that edges can signify not just borders but also seams interweaving past and future, urging humanity to embrace forward-thinking, incremental change despite existential challenges. It draws parallels with avant-garde ideas and art-science-tech entanglements, showcasing how creativity and collaboration can guide us through planetary uncertainty. The study concludes with a call for courage and action, echoing Harper Lee's definition of real courage: beginning again and seeing it through, even when the outcome is uncertain.

Ayton-Shenker, D. (2023). The Edge of Beginning Again. Leonardo, 56(4), 334. https://doi.org/10.1162/leon_e_02422