Eye Contact Experiment
How often do you look someone in the eyes for a minute or more? What happens when we try?
“I could never do that…”
A statement often heard when talking about eye gazing.
Choosing courage over comfort makes you a real badass! Brené Brown Ph. D., LMSW is a research professor that studies vulnerability, shame and empathy.
You might resonate with how badass something like this can be
Something magical happens when we find true human connection
Design for effortless connection
Nestled strategically between the trees in Liberty Park, so as to block out the sun and offer a peaceful eye gazing experience. We asked participants to bring a yoga mat, cushion or something to sit on. We set up a few cushions and even some chairs for those who preferred to not be on the ground.
Event held during UN International Peace Week
“Such a awesome event” - Erin
Participants would create a brave space for each other, with an unsaid agreement that I will hold space for you and show up ready to share who I am and you can do the same
What’s it like to be seen, truly seen?
Eye gazers would introduce each other and get a few awkward words out about how unique this gathering is. Once settled with each other's company, they would hold a minute or so of silent eye contact. After which, something magical would happen, once awkward strangers were now bantering about their experience with laughter and a few even shared tears of joy, over how powerful that experience was for them.
So why Eye Contact?
We all want to be seen for who we truly are.
The customs and significance of eye contact vary between societies, with religious and social differences often altering its meaning greatly. Here, we only ask that you leave your ego at home, your beliefs about who you are, who you want to be and how others perceive you. Show up as your true self and be seen.
"We as humans do not connect in the most basic ways. Connecting like this will change you and the world we live in.” -Michelle
100+
Eye Gazers and counting…
100’s
Of conversations discussing their experience afterwards
JOY
Limitless Joy and human connection
JOYMOB
"Such a beautiful event. I’m so grateful. I would love to do one in the daybreak area" - Cameo
This gathering was part of The World's Biggest Eye Contact Experiment 2018: Global Event coordinated by The Liberators International in 156 cities all over the world.
Special Thanks
Photos by
Robin Pendergrast
Claire B
Eye Gazers
Special thanks to all the eye gazers who came out, who chose courage over comfort, and created a brave space for everyone to express themselves in their own unique way. You are brilliant! #share1minSLC
Supporters
The House Gatherings