Feel slightly torn now between my original idea of a type of kit to encourage families and friends to create and communicate together; and a programme that looks at civic engagement through crafts.
I have been thinking a lot about a programme that would encourage communities to take part in activities and produce work that reflects their own experiences and places they live. I would like to explore the role that crafts play in the social development of communities, but I am not yet sure I am willing to give up on my original idea.
We all know that getting involved in arts and culture stimulates conversations. Can these dialogues be used to create stronger communities? So do I want to create situations in which designer makers and craft enthusiasts are given opportunities that develop purposeful and deliberate debate in relation to the experience and community issues? Dialogues about civic issues, policies, decisions about their areas etc. that help people understand themselves and their communities better. They will develop new craft skills as well as gain confidence and learn how to lead and manage a group or project and communicate and negotiate with other members in their communities.
I am sure there are a number of designer makers in my area that specialise in participatory arts that can empower local people, create work that encompasses their diversity, and embed crafts into the key debates in the local area.
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