Creative Communities Podcast

Music with Meaning: co-producing health and culture with Georgina Aasgaard in Liverpool (England)

“We are more than a mass of cells, more than a diagnosis, more than the label of service user and carer. Music connects with that, to make it real and bring it to life.” How can we amplify the community voices and foster health and well-being in collaboration with practitioners and music? Join Community Innovation Practitioner and classically trained cellist Georgina Aasgaard from the University of Liverpool, as she explores the importance of valuing practitioners' expertise as they work with diverse communities. In this episode, Georgina examines a successful music and health programme by the Liverpool Philharmonic and Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust.  You’ll visit collaborative music-making in action, including a library, a high-security hospital, and a community pantry. You’ll hear from the team and practitioners who deliver these courses and the participants who’ve benefitted from them. Discover the power of practitioner-led, co-created music in diverse communities and the need for more participant voices and practitioner support structures.   Georgina’s Community Innovation Practitioner story proposes the "5 C's of Practice" - Connection, Collaboration, Creativity, Commitment, and Care - as a framework for co-designing supportive community environments. Read the transcript here [https://creativecommunities.uk/research/cip-pilot-podcast/transcript-creative-communities-episode-6/] Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Creative Communities Podcast 01:36 Exploring Liverpool's Music and Health Programme 02:36 Georgina's Journey and Research 07:26 The Life Rooms: A Unique Social Model 10:31 Impact of Music on Mental Health 20:51 Co-Creation in High Secure Hospitals 25:35 St. Dunstan's Church: A New Community Hub 36:28 Challenges and Opportunities in Collaborative Music Making 44:11 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Useful links About Georgina’s Creative Communities project - https://creativecommunities.uk/research/georgina-aasgaard [https://creativecommunities.uk/research/georgina-aasgaard/] More from AHRC Creative Communities Programme, and to find out how to get involved - Creative Communities.uk [http://communities.uk] Thanks Thanks to the Life Rooms participants and staff for their trust and support, to visiting musicians Mandy Burvill, Claire Henry and Ian Stephens, Nicola Hopson and Michael Eakin from the Philharmonic, Michael Crilly from Mersey Care, and Jacky Waldock and Josie Billington from the University of Liverpool. ----------------------------------------- The Creative Communities podcast explores the power of cultural research and collaborative creativity. Join us as we discover how communities across the UK are tackling challenges and building a brighter future through groundbreaking projects.  Over six episodes, meet inspiring "Community Innovation Practitioners" leading the way. We'll follow their journeys of cultural collaboration, co-creation, and innovation, showcasing real-life examples of how creativity empowers communities to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Credits Creative Communities [https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/] is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK [https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/] (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle [https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/]. With podcast production and training from MIC media [http://www.micmedia.co.uk].

Co-designing Culture: Collaborative community design with Gaston Welisch in Glasgow (Scotland)

“The success story is a change of culture internally. That's really difficult to do. Changing the direction of a massive ship while it's in transit is a tough thing.” How can an accessible, design-led approach support genuine community engagement and collaboration? Join Community Innovation Practitioner and researcher Gaston Welisch from Glasgow School of Art as he explores how the University of Glasgow’s Arts and Humanities Partnership Catalyst is fostering collaboration between academics and industry and third-sector partners. In this episode, discover how Gaston’s use of creative methods has enhanced collaboration and understanding of Catalyst themes. You’ll hear from the Catalyst team who have designed and tested this engaging and accessible research and the participants who are benefiting from this approach. You’ll also visit the most recent Catalyst project that aims to revitalise Govan Old Church in Glasgow as a community hub. Hear Gaston’s Community Innovation Practitioner journey through the Catalyst from the challenges, to achieving valuable insights and genuine community engagement that will better design projects that truly reflect and service local needs. Read the transcript here [https://creativecommunities.uk/research/cip-pilot-podcast/transcript-creative-communities-episode-5/] Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Communities 01:37 The Catalyst, a Design-Led Knowledge Exchange 02:43 The Catalyst Workshops 04:24 Exploring Workshop Themes and Methods 05:10 Reflecting on the Catalyst Process 11:03 Challenges and Opportunities in Govan 18:38 The Role of Visual Tools in Collaboration 31:16 Participant Experiences and Feedback 41:49 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Useful links About Gaston’s Creative Communities project - https://creativecommunities.uk/research/gaston-welisch [https://creativecommunities.uk/research/gaston-welisch] More from AHRC Creative Communities Programme, and to find out how to get involved - Creative Communities.uk [http://communities.uk] Thanks Thanks to Dr. Cheryl McGeachan and Prof. Stephen Driscoll for sharing their thoughts and time. My thanks also to the Catalyst team: Dr. Lindsay Middleton, Dr. Neil McIntyre, Dr. Fraser Rowan, Dr. Kirstie Wild, and Dr. Michael Pierre Johnson. I'm deeply appreciative of the participants and partners for the Govan Old Catalyst for sharing their knowledge and ideas. Their contributions are invaluable. -------------------------------------------- The Creative Communities podcast explores the power of cultural research and collaborative creativity. Join us as we discover how communities across the UK are tackling challenges and building a brighter future through groundbreaking projects.  Over six episodes, meet inspiring "Community Innovation Practitioners" leading the way. We'll follow their journeys of cultural collaboration, co-creation, and innovation, showcasing real-life examples of how creativity empowers communities to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Credits Creative Communities [https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/] is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK [https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/] (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle [https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/]. With podcast production and training from MIC media [http://www.micmedia.co.uk].

Skaters on Screen: Capturing DIY Skate Culture & Community Action with Jim Donaghey in Portrush (NI)

“This research project has given us a responsibility to do this. It’s put Portrush on the map as a skating destination.” How can collaboration and co-creation among skaters, partners, and local authorities build a stronger, inclusive and vibrant skateboarding community in Portrush? Join Community Innovation Practitioner and Research Fellow Jim Donaghey from Ulster University, as he explores the power of partnership, collaboration and DIY culture to support the long-standing campaign for a skate park in Portrush, Northern Ireland. In this episode, discover how preserving skateboarding heritage through videography, is helping to connect past and present generations of skaters. This is helping to foster a sense of community and supporting them to advocate for a dedicated skate space. You'll visit skate spots, meet passionate skaters, and hear from urban sports experts and lots of different community voices, from local shop owners to parents.  Listen as Jim shares the story of this Creative Communities project, exploring the challenges and triumphs of creating a supported skate culture in his hometown. BBC © copyright content reproduced courtesy of the British Broadcasting Corporation. All rights reserved. www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mvxy [https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mvxy]  Music: ‘Causeway Rebel’ Team Fresh, 2010. By Browne, Crowe, Donaghey, Dunbar, Evans, Kennedy, Friers, Shields. Read the transcript here [https://creativecommunities.uk/research/cip-pilot-podcast/transcript-creative-communities-episode-4/] Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Creative Communities Podcast 01:31 Exploring Portrush's Skateboarding Scene 03:33 The Skatepark Campaign: A 30-Year Journey 05:51 Challenges 08:12 Community Voices: Perspectives on Skateboarding 14:21 Station Square: A Hub for Skateboarding 18:12 DIY Culture and Community Efforts 27:35 Research Interventions and Their Impact 35:11 Reflections and Future Prospects 52:58 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Useful links About Jim’s Creative Communities project - https://creativecommunities.uk/research/jim-donaghey [https://creativecommunities.uk/research/jim-donaghey] More from AHRC Creative Communities Programme, and to find out how to get involved - Creative Communities.uk [http://communities.uk]Thanks Deepest gratitude to Slaine Browne for all his creative work, and to everyone at Causeway Association of Urban Sports – we’ll get Portrush a skatepark yet. Thanks to Coast Carpentry for showing us what to do, and to Igloo Pizza and Babushka Café for keeping us fed and watered. --------------------------------- The Creative Communities podcast explores the power of cultural research and collaborative creativity. Join us as we discover how communities across the UK are tackling challenges and building a brighter future through groundbreaking projects.  Over six episodes, meet inspiring "Community Innovation Practitioners" leading the way. We'll follow their journeys of cultural collaboration, co-creation, and innovation, showcasing real-life examples of how creativity empowers communities to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Credits Creative Communities [https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/] is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK [https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/] (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle [https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/]. With podcast production and training from MIC media [http://www.micmedia.co.uk].

Putting the Making in Place-Making: Sustainable Heritage with Alex Langlands in Neath Port Talbot (Wales)

“Heritage doesn't matter if no one's going to engage with it. Changing how heritage is now used and interpreted means more audiences will engage with it.” How are communities working together to breathe new life into post-industrial heritage sites? Join Community Innovation Practitioner and Archaeologist Alex Langlands from Swansea University on a heritage journey through the Welsh valleys.  In this episode, explore how through collaboration and co-creation, communities in Neath Port Talbot are creating a more equitable and vibrant future for the region through their heritage.  You’ll visit Craig Gwladus Country Park, Nath Valley Ironworks, White Rock Copper Works and Parc Slip Colliery. All once hives of industrial activity, are now transformed into beautiful greenspaces, where people of all ages can play, connect and learn new skills. You’ll also meet many local voices along the way like volunteers, storytellers and conservation experts. Listen as Alex argues for a shift in traditional heritage management, including community engagement. However, this shouldn't be an afterthought; it should be central to preserving our heritage. The episode also highlights the dedication of volunteers who play a crucial role. https://creativecommunities.uk/research/cip-pilot-podcast/transcript-creative-communities-episode-3/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Creative Communities Podcast 02:34 Challenges and Community Efforts in Craig Gwladus Country Park 04:18 Volunteer Initiatives and Achievements 08:24 Engaging the Youth and Expanding Heritage Projects 23:17 Neath Abbey Ironworks: A Historical Treasure 31:38 Exploring the White Rock Copperworks 32:18 Phil Okwedi's Storytelling and African Connections 38:51 Engaging with Industrial Heritage 47:54 Concluding Thoughts on Heritage and Community 50:24 Outro and Next Episode Preview Useful Links About Alex’s Creative Communities project - https://creativecommunities.uk/research/alexander-langlands [https://creativecommunities.uk/research/alexander-langlands] More from AHRC Creative Communities Programme and how to get involved - Creative Communities.uk [http://communities.uk] Thanks Thanks to the community at Craig Gwladus Country Park, to Lisa Kirman, Park Manager, Diane Davies, Chair of the Friends group, and the merry band of volunteers who generously give their time to keep the park open and accessible for all those who enjoy its remarkable beauty and tranquillity. ------------------ The Creative Communities podcast explores the power of cultural research and collaborative creativity. Join us as we discover how communities across the UK are tackling challenges and building a brighter future through groundbreaking projects.  Over six episodes, meet inspiring "Community Innovation Practitioners" leading the way. We'll follow their journeys of cultural collaboration, co-creation, and innovation, showcasing real-life examples of how creativity empowers communities to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Credits Creative Communities [https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/] is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK [https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/] (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle [https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/]. With podcast production and training from MIC media [http://www.micmedia.co.uk].

Transforming Trauma: Co-creating Change Through Culture with Áine Brady in Belfast (NI)

“I wasn't expecting this project to impact us in the way it has. It's breaking a generational cycle and it builds human connection. We've seen this happen in our group.” How can collaboration and creativity tackle the stigma of addiction and trauma? Join Community Innovation Practitioner and Local Coordinator Áine Brady from Queens University in Belfast, as she explores the transformative power of culture and creativity. In this episode, join Áine in The Market, a working-class community grappling with addiction and trauma. Here she delivers a year-long partnership with the Market Development Association and Pangur Ban, a local arts group. Together, they address the stigma surrounding addiction and trauma through "The Tapestry Project," a resident-led photography project. You’ll visit the project’s intergenerational participants, who tell the story of this community's resilience through historical, societal and economic challenges. Now, through the collaborative power of The Tapestry Project, they’ve found a sense of connection and empowerment. Hear Áine’s Community Innovation Practitioner story, which emphasises the power of collaboration, challenges policy models, and champions arts-based approaches – all thanks to genuine cross-sector partnerships. BBC © copyright content reproduced courtesy of the British Broadcasting Corporation. All rights reserved. www.bbcrewind.co.uk [http://www.bbcrewind.co.uk] , www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mvxy [https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b006mvxy] Read the transcript ⁠here⁠ [https://creativecommunities.uk/research/cip-pilot-podcast/transcript-creative-communities-episode-2/] Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Creative Communities Podcast 01:47 Exploring Belfast's Market Community 03:07 The Tapestry Project: A Community Initiative 06:28 Historical Context and Challenges 14:42 Participant Experiences and Reflections 22:31 Creative Methods for Addressing Trauma 24:22 The Power of Art in Community Development 29:40 The Tapestry Exhibition 41:37 Challenges and Learnings from the Project 43:22 Empowering Communities Through Arts and Research 46:59 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Useful Links About Áine’s Creative Communities project - https://creativecommunities.uk/research/aine-brady [https://creativecommunities.uk/research/aine-brady] More from AHRC Creative Communities Programme, and to find out how to get involved - Creative Communities.uk [http://communities.uk] Thanks Thanks to the community workers in the Market; Fionntan, Siobhan, Eimear and Claire Louise.  Thanks to Matt Faris and Karen McGuigan for your support and encouragement.  Biggest thanks go to the participants of the Tapestry project and the people of my beloved community, the Market.  Thanks for always turning up, being vulnerable and trusting me with your stories. Market Abú! ------------------------------- The Creative Communities podcast explores the power of cultural research and collaborative creativity. Join us as we discover how communities across the UK are tackling challenges and building a brighter future through groundbreaking projects.  Over six episodes, meet inspiring "Community Innovation Practitioners" leading the way. We'll follow their journeys of cultural collaboration, co-creation, and innovation, showcasing real-life examples of how creativity empowers communities to build a stronger, more resilient UK. Creative Communities [https://creativecommunities.uk/the-programme/] is funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council UK [https://www.ukri.org/councils/ahrc/] (Grant Agreement No AH/X001555/1) and hosted at Northumbria University, Newcastle [https://www.northumbria.ac.uk/]. With podcast production and training from MIC media [http://www.micmedia.co.uk].