ARTIVIST GM 10

Main outcomes:

 Three key learning and network sessions took place in Manchester Central Library to share ideas, knowledge and bring artists and archivists together for the first time  Ten pieces of new original art work were created in each of the ten local authorities

 A video documenting the process of the project was produced by Belle Vue Productions

Key Learning:

84 artists applied for commissions of £1K. This highlighted the interest by artists to be involved in bringing to life archives and collections. Artists and archivists would have benefited from more open conversations at the beginning of the project to choose archives that inspired both parties. Artists supported archivists to connect with emotions in the archive, deepening their understanding of their importance. Archivists had to give over control to the artists in a fluid process that was unfamiliar for archivists. The project management of the programme took much longer than expected, initially in terms of the recruitment of artists, but also in the on-going support of artists who changed their ideas as the project progressed.

Legacy of project:

 Artists created work that remain in the archives for future generation to enjoy and learn from

 Artists went on to do more project work with collections based on their experience of being involved in Artivist GM

 Aziz Ibrahim talked about his work at the British

Textile Biennial Talks 2019: Sew What? which explored textiles as a vehicle for protest and cultural identity in installations, performances and art works that take a dynamic look at our relationship with that most basic and ancient of human creations, cloth

❝Made me think more broadly about the use of our archives. Attendance figures are dropping – so to have potential new audiences opened my eyes a bit to see how we could engage more with the public.

Archivist

BFI FILM ACADEMY

The BFI Film Academy project worked in partnership with HOME. The outreach programme was aimed at 16–19 year old young people from across the region, reproducing HOME’s successful model to reach talented filmmakers and passionate film fans.

The intensive two-month project covered practical film-making, film theory, programming, distribution and certification, with participants learning from industry professionals. Project activities were delivered over 21 individual days featuring workshops, talks and on-location film-making.

The final film entitled ‘FREESTYLE’ was screened at HOME to the young filmmakers, friends and family, and key partners from the Peterloo 2019 programme.

❝It inspired me to have the liberty to express myself.

Participant of BFI Film Academy