IL Curated Conversations
Internal Landscapes - Curated Conversations
We designed and delivered a community building programme combining curated conversations and creative walks, using mediums as sketching, printmaking and writing. The public workshops run in collaboration with Crofton Park, Corbett, Manor House and Sydenham Community Libraries and Lewisham Local. We crafted spaces that made people feel safe, interested and inspired and the intimacy of each workshop, hosting a a smaller number of participants, provided space for longer, deeper conversations.
“Place/space is a very broad concept but the guidebook Dima provided and its questions were very helpful for participants to navigate their ideas and memories and centre their narrative. The stories that came out were beautiful, heartfelt and genuine. The practice of sharing them in a group chat also helped participants to connect and respond, and collectively construct what Lewisham is to each of them.” Jasmine Leung, participant in the Manor House Library workshop.
“Dima facilitated the conversation very beautifully, listening to everyone sharing their experiences of growing up and in the recent years. It was very relaxing to hear about how Lewisham stays with the participants through time. It was a very joyful and warm experience: in a playful environment, I felt a deep appreciation towards each other and also respect for the art, and learnt the importance of symbolism. The space overall was full of creativity, encouragement, and love. I wish it had gone on for longer!” Cherelle Angeline, participant in the Sydenham Library workshop
“The Conversation and Printmaking Workshop was a brilliant event in Lewisham, developing the arts and culture of this borough, making residents feel more connected or a sense of belonging to where they live. It was a well-organised creative encounter that explored the diversity and inclusiveness of Lewisham. Dima led the participants to share unforgettable memories, stories in relation to different places in Lewisham where they live, work or study. Residents chatted about their neighbourhood while creating their artworks, therefore not only developing everyone’s creativity, but also reinforcing the connection between each other.” Huizi Miao, participant in the Crofton Park Library workshop
“The format of the workshop was really effective I thought. Having a discussion first allowed everyone to loosen up and also generate ideas for their lino print. It was laid back and not a pressurised environment, and especially when discussing something so personal it made it all the more easier to get into the groove of the workshop. Even though I was excited for the lino printing portion of the workshop, I really enjoyed the discussion – the topic was one I have always been interested in and the prompt questions about places, environments and our sense of belonging.” Anoushka Narayanan, participant in the Corbett Library workshop
“Dima invited two writers, Bex Gordon and Tyrone Lewis, to join us – to look at our stories, and turn them into prose and/or poems. This provided a nice exchange where people were discussing their stories with the writers and then further with each other. I shared the idea behind my print with Tyrone, along with the feelings I had when I visited Telegraph Hill with friends, and the contrast of going by myself during the Pandemic. My story inspired him to write a poem. There was also time allowed for those who wanted to print to continue to experiment with techniques and materials. Several people made prints which they took home with them, including myself. Some participants offered their prints to others in the room.” Ivie Bartlett, participant in the Bow Arts Studio workshop
Photos by Arek Golosz. Creative Conversations in March and April 2022.