Making Stories

Abstract

“Community is the starting point for new modes of relatedness, in which the paradigm of social conscience replaces that of the individual genius…art, which speaks to the power of connectedness and establishes bonds, art that calls us into relationship.”
Suzi Gablik, The Reenchantment of Art, 1991, p114

The stories that arise when art and craft processes are used as a means of engaging with people from a wide range of backgrounds, can be surprising and inspiring. Working in the area of socially engaged art practice, my experiences have led me to reflect upon the value of making as a dynamic force in communicating with others; using hands-on art or craft-based skills can give people an opportunity to explore their creativity, express themselves in new ways and define their identity. Gathering people together to work in a group, sharing a task and becoming involved in practical work seems to break down inhibitions – the physical outcome (a sculpture, a series of prints) becomes the focus. Making together seems to promote a particular kind of openness amongst participants: as the group works together, their hands are occupied and the conversation flows unselfconsciously as they concentrate on the task.

In working with others, I have often started by considering sensory experience, especially in relation to place. Responding to the haptic sense, rather than the visual in the first instance, allows individuals to tap into powerful memories. The aim, though, is not to ‘dig’, but to allow personal narratives to gradually rise to the surface. The tangible process of handling materials and the sense of purposefulness that this can create has positive benefits in itself – the comfort and positive association of working with familiar materials, or the absorption of a challenging new task. My primary interest, however, lies in the value of making and the ‘moments’ that can arise when a space is created through hands-on activity for discussion and the unfolding of personal stories - even those who would not normally see themselves as image-makers are able to find expressive form.

The sharing of stories through making can be a cathartic and self-affirming experience, contributing to individual wellbeing and the sharing of understanding amongst peers. Myths may be dispelled and people can tell their story, gaining a voice in the community. Humans have a need to make and to discover significant aesthetic forms as an expression of themselves and their experiences.

Rachel will use examples from some of the projects that she has worked on with a wide variety of people including refugee and asylum seekers and older people, and will reflect upon the use of different material practices in these contexts. Ranging from stone carving to felt-making, many of the processes engage participants in a tactile and bodily activity. Themes of journey-making, mapping and place run through the projects and are interwoven with the images and stories that unfold in the moments of connection that can occur between artist and collaborator.