Creative practices and public engagement

Daša Spasojevic

This exposition explores the role of creative practices in creating methods for public engagement and the promotion and recognition of tangible and intangible heritage at a local community level. It argues that principles of participatory design and co-creation have the power to contribute to community social cohesion and development. A literature review covering the main concepts and methods is introduced to provide an appropriate context for the main case study: Mapping Nottingham’s Identity. This research project includes the methodological and conceptual framework that were piloted and tested in collaboration with three localities within Nottingham (Sneinton, Carrington, and West Bridgford), including different stakeholders (community organisations, higher education, primary schools, local authorities, and the general public), producing a variety of outputs (a participatory methods’ toolkit, performative maps, community furniture, exhibition, websites) and reflecting on their role in creating meaningful interactions and place-making.

THE MAP

OF CONTENT

CREATIVE PRACTICES AND PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT

1. Why would someone do research on this? [Context and relevance]

> the scientific and social relevance of this project, focusing on four main themes: place, identity, heritage, and co-creation

2. How do you engage? [A participatory methods’ toolkit]

> a detailed explanation of all methods used during the project

3. [Why would I get involved in this?]

> an overview of different profiles of participants in the project, and the motives behind their involvement

4. Did you also hear something about an exhibition? [Results]

> the outcomes of the methods used, as they were presented in the final exhibition at Nottingham Central Library

5. Can you explain this process through a picture set? [Discussion in pictures]

> a visual overview of the project, including comments gathered from the participants involved

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