Associates from AHI leadership programme came together in London on the 19th of July for the 2nd creative session. The day started off with a creativity check-in activity by Wallis Eates, who is a creator of comics and a facilitator based in Devon. Wallis instructed the associates to work together and co-create a timed group comic together. We produdced 8 sheets of 10 of comic strip and it was so much fun.

We then join in a world cafe facilitation session and were connected with a group of diverse artists from different disciplines including photography, curation and comic creation. They were Estelle Marois (independent curator), Oluwatosin Daniju (photographer) and Wallis Eates. The timed conversatons made space for rich dialogue, connecting, knowledge sharing as well as reflection and creative work throughout the day.

Luis Caicedo, founder of AMUZN, which an interactive mobile app platform to discover & purchase creative services delivered a presentation on this application. The app is now available across the UK, EU, and US. Search for the app by name, or for Apple App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android)

The afternoon was time for the 8 of us getting to know each other discplines, get curious and get to know each other a bit better. Together we took over Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation and mapped our skills, ideas of collobrations and things we need to enhance our practice.

Gemma, from Bury, Lancashire recited some of her poetry work, gave context behind her creative process. In addition to her poetry, she is a facilitator, member of Girl Gang Manchester, and trainee journalist for Traveller’s Time. We were able to ask her more about her work.

Amerah shared her campaign work with Oxfam, as well as her upcoming theatre work in Birmingham. She has co-written, produced and directed ‘LANGUAGES BETWEEN STRANGERS’ show that is debuting on 3rd August 7-9 pm as part of Festival 23. It delves into the depths of migration, home, masculinity, and compassion. Prepare to be transported into a world where ordinary circumstances give birth to an extraordinary friendship. It is free entry at the CENTENARY SQUARE BIRMINGHAM.

Bryony showcased a compilation of mediums under the theme of joy, this involved using the PechaKucha storytelling technique, which is a timed approach of sharing stories. Bryony gave context behind the pieces presented at the session which was very candid and honest.

Nell, also used the PechaKucha storytelling method to share her work in theatre, which focuses on highlighting complex trauma. We learnt that she released 2 songs and inspired by her own experience within the Church of England, she has written and produced I, Lord via her company Response Ability Theatre which invite us to attend mass through the mind of a survivor of spiritual abuse. See it on 30th Oct at Bloomsbury Theatre, London, book here.

I (Rianna – second row in the photo, far right) shared more about my upcoming documentary film on Dementia in the Caribbean. We also viewed an exclusive promotional video for the documentary.

I found this session very informative and broaden my mindset on the innovative practices run by local organizations. I enjoyed tapping into my creativity through different channels such as comics and storytelling. It gave me a lot to think about regarding freelance opportunities and how to position myself in the market as an artist/filmmaker. It was good to catch up with everyone, I’m inspired by the work that everyone is doing. I was also able to share some resources from my network with other associates during the day.

Kate, Sampira and Nailah will share their work in September.

The AHI team also gave an update on a series of programme being delivered across this year which includes ART Labs, Cultural Spaces and a trip to produce creative work in Brazil!

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