7th April- PROCESSIONS Workshop/Brief

7th April- 

PROCESSIONS Initial Workshop/Brief
Beginning of collaborative Project
https://nnfestival.org.uk/take-part/participate/processions/

We were emailed a link to get involved in the Norwich and Norfolk festival project 'processions' this workshop brings woman together to work collaboratively and creatively producing something that will be taken to London and make up part of a parade. This Parade is marking 100 years since women have had the vote in the UK. This to me is a very important topic still and the socially engaged, collaborative, creative nature is another vital aspect. I was so excited to meet new people from a range of ages to work with. This is exactly what happened on the day, we met at City college to discuss the project and start out discussions. There was a wide age range of woman which to me is vital in understanding what is 'important' and at the forefront of each age groups brain. There was a mixture of people from practicing artists such as myself to individuals that wanted to feel more inspired. We discussed what inspires us and what we want to achieve. For me the answer is always 'things aren't fair yet' that is what inspires me to work creatively across spheres and focus on change.

We were shown some reference material and we spoke about what is important to us as well as women's issues and equality in general. It was very interesting to hear how generation can really alter the way in which things are seen especially in terms of mens and womens rights/equality. I made the point repeatedly that it is more about equity than equality now. By this I mean that if someone is already elevated/has been in a position of power/wealth, the minority group that were oppressed do deserve the recognition and the help. In a society built on patriarchy, It is only right that women hold their ground together and try to claim a world in which everyday sexism, out of date ideals and male neoliberal success does not measure your worth. 

Pages that inspired me from the books- 

This book was mainly focussing on the suffragettes and the amazing work they did. I think the recognition of this is vital however I think we need to be tackling the air of compliance and dismissal that so many women have and they allowance to still be beaten down and be told that the pride and fight is a negative quality. 

 This page was of specific interest to me as this was part of the fight back against the suffragettes. This poster that depicts a baby crying was used to imply that these women were trouble makers and that they were not fit mothers also. There was a belief in both men and women that this disobedience is not how woman should behave. There was genuine attitudes such as that which prevail in today's society. There is an unconscious attitude ingrained into us that sits very firmly within our brains. This offers an unfortunate evel of compliance in many. 

 Personally of great interest as I am so interested in literature, writing and the way in which words can bridge gaps to change and advancement.

Finally, the last image resonated with me as it is not an overtly feminist message. Although feminism means equality, it is often associated with females as they are a large proportion of the oppressed across the world. However, this image and the text echos very political messages, themes and ideas that to me are socialist in commentary and anti hierarchy. There is a corrupt power structure currently in place that disallows the free flowing advancement of society in a progressive manner. Therefore, I feel that although this project is a celebration, it would be good to use it as a platform to raise a message for those who are still voiceless. 

I plan to make some template plans and do research so I can pitch my ideas to the group next time we meet and see if they agree. however, I feel this collaboration will be beneficial even if my choices are not those that get finalised.