Host Christopher Miller interviews landscape architect/teacher Michael Parkey, ASLA on the art of listening during the creative process. Michael introduces listening for the Genius Loci or “Guardian Spirit of a Place.” As artists, we’re asked to be still, be present and avoid the temptation to force a solution. Conversation details Michael’s learned process including years of practice, focused concentration and “dreaming with his eyes open” that helps him identify the emotional feeling of a project. He cautions to avoid formulaic work while letting the creative process unfold. Discussion also includes reference to Mark Nepo’s “Seven Thousand Ways to Listen,” and the learnable ability to visualize a project before it’s begun. Michael has taught courses on landscape design and native plans for Southern Methodist University, and frequently lectures on the same topics. His articles, designs, and illustrations have appeared in several books and periodicals, and he has frequently contributed to The Dallas Morning News. His designs have received awards from the City of Dallas and the American Society of Landscape Architects. For more information, visit http://www.michaelparkey.com/