Photography: Francis Fitzgerald, 2024

Co-Creation at the Heart of HOME

What made HOME so special was that it was truly a co-created experience. Nearly every decision was shaped through discussion and experimentation, with each participant’s voice contributing equally to the process. This collaborative spirit fostered a sense of ownership and connection among everyone involved.

Community Engagement Through Art

A key element of our co-creation was the integration of a community crochet project. Participants came together to create vibrant crochet pieces that symbolized their interpretations of home, weaving their stories into the fabric of the project. This tactile art not only added a unique visual element but also deepened the sense of community among participants.

Our summer school programme also played a significant role in engaging local youth with the themes of HOME. Through workshops and creative activities, young people contributed their perspectives on belonging and identity, ensuring that a diverse range of experiences was represented throughout the project.

Adding another layer of creativity, we collaborated with Whippet Up and their groups to design innovative parade structure buildings, including a striking two-person Transporter Bridge. This whimsical structure served as a visual centerpiece for the project, symbolizing the connections we create with one another and reflecting the journey of discovering what home truly means.

Additionally, intimate photography sessions with Mike Sreenan elevated individual participants, capturing their unique stories and perspectives on home. These sessions created a safe space for self-expression, allowing participants to share their experiences in a powerful visual format that complemented the broader themes of the project.

The HOME project also emphasized the importance of outdoor arts, creating dynamic and accessible spaces for engagement within the community. By taking our work outside traditional venues, we not only invited a broader audience to participate but also highlighted the transformative power of art in public spaces.

HOME aimed to foster social change by addressing themes of belonging, identity, and community cohesion. Through the artistic process, we encouraged participants to reflect on their personal narratives and the shared experiences that unite us. This dialogue has the potential to inspire understanding and empathy, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and connected community.

Navigating the Creative Journey

As the process unfolded, we experienced breakthrough moments where ideas flowed freely, and connections deepened. The essence of HOME was in its co-creation; each participant's unique perspective contributed to a rich tapestry of experiences and insights. Challenges arose, too, as differing viewpoints emerged, but navigating these differences only enriched our collective understanding. Together, we crafted something that truly reflects the multiplicity of what home can mean, showcasing the strength of collaboration and community.