This panel discussion on ecosomatic practices features Raffaele Rufo, Petra Kuppers, Jared Gradinger and Maria Huhmarniemi. Panelists are all united by a deep interest in and commitment to both academic and artistic work at the intersection of performance, movement-based arts, disability, and ecological/nature-based perspectives. Each of you brings a unique specialization across fields such as performance, dance, social art, environmental education, and “planting disabled futures.”

The event is part of the upcoming inclusive dance festival, XDance Festival 2025, which will take place from June 2nd to June 8th in Helsinki under the project "Nature in Motion." This is an initiative funded by the ERASMUS programme, exploring how movement and nature can come together to create more inclusive, accessible, and enriching experiences and connections for all.

The central aim of the “Nature in Motion” project is to focus on how access to nature near urban areas can be improved and reimagined in order to promote greater awareness of human perception and experiences within natural environments. Ultimately, we hope to contribute to long-term goals around enhancing overall quality of life. “Nature in Motion“ seeks to broaden access to nature by adapting both movement practices and outdoor spaces so that individuals of all abilities may benefit.

The project will interweave nature, dance, and storytelling to create accessible and meaningful experiences for people with disabilities. As a final outcome, two short documentary films will be produced, highlighting the accessibility of nature in both Madrid and Helsinki.

Hosted by Kaaos Company at Cultural Center Caisa, Helsinki https://www.caisa.fi/en/events/event/9C8B2354B674A2D6E9F2CA6B9BF1EA82/X_Dance_Festival_2025