In Conversation with Ian Friend, Sarah Holland-Batt and Manish Mallas | 9.02.22

Matter Over Mind, Mind Over Matter was a discussion on the converging and intersecting practices of an artist, a poet and a mindfulness practitioner. This conversation was led by facilitator Alain Guillemain, and ended with a short mindfulness practice led by Manish Mallas, modern mindfulness guru.

Ian Friend | Artist
From his studio in Ipswich, Queensland, Ian Friend creates subtle and evocative works on paper using pigment, ink and gouache. Though materiality is an integral part of his practice, his works also reflect a rich engagement with music and poetry.

Sarah Holland-Batt | Poet and Author
Sarah Holland-Batt is an award-winning poet, editor, and critic. Her first book, Aria, was the recipient of several literary prizes and her poems have been widely published in international journals and magazines, including The New Yorker and Poetry.

Manish Mallas | Modern Mindfulness Guru
Manish is one of the world’s most experienced mindfulness teachers. He grew up in an Indian family with a history of mindfulness stretching back to the beginning of the practice 2,500 years ago. Manish was selected by his grandfather at 5 years old to carry on the lineage, and since then has been practicing meditation, breath-work and yoga.

Alain Guillemain | PhD Candidate in Philosophy
Alain is a Brisbane-based business entrepreneur and writer with an Honours in Philosophy. He is currently completing his PhD in Philosophy at Deakin University.