Road tripping jumping joy with Jim Flanagan in Coachella

Jim Flanagan photographed by Eyoalha Baker for Jump for Joy Photo Project and Palm Springs Cultural Center Artist Residency

Jim joined Steven, Miriam and I on a day trip to Coachella to do his jump for joy photo. I felt like this simple beige building represented a lot of the areas I”ve seen around the Coachella Valley. Jim seemed a little nervous and like many people said he didn’t think he could jump very high. I always tell people that the project isn’t about how high you can jump (although I know it’s fun to look high up), it’s about the power and energy used to lift ourselves up with joyful intention. This energy is innate within all of us. It’s the joy of celebration. So, I love showing people how amazing they look, flying through the air, and breaking limiting beliefs about their jumping abilities.

Get to know a little about Jim:

Q: What inspires you to jump for joy?
A:
Clean air and bright sunshine.

Q: How was your experience doing the jumping photos?
A:
It was funner than I thought, especially exploring Indio and Coachella Valley and seeing great places with happy folks.

Q: How do you describe the feeling of joy?
A:
When you are present and in the moment, all the world’s problems are far away and you can have joy.

Q: What is your greatest passion in life?
A:
Experiencing the beauty and functionality found in nature.

Q: How do you feel about being part of a community project that promotes joy?
A:
Happy.

Q: If you could do anything in the world, what would it be?
A:
Eliminate fossil fuels.

Q: What are you working on or creating?
A:
Working on HIV education and outreach for high school kids.

Q: Mini bio or something special you want to share.
A:
I’m an engineer that has worked on climate change issues for the last 30 years.

Thank you Jim, for being open to jumping around and sharing your joy with us!

—-

Thank you to the Palm Springs Cultural Center inviting me to be your first Artist in residence and bringing the Jump for Joy Photo Project to the Coachella Valley.

If you live in the Coachella Valley and would like more info on the project, or would like to take part, email us: jumpforjoy@psculturalcenter.org

—-

Follow Jump for Joy on:
Instagram: @jumpforjoyphotoproject
Twitter: @jumpforjoyphoto
Facebook: /JumpForJoyPhotoProject

Please... share the joy :)