In episode 1 Brigitte shares her extensive experience in engaging communities through both her own practice and the participatory programme that Strange Cargo curate and deliver. Brigitte talks about the importance of bringing high quality work to people’s doorsteps, sometimes even into their living rooms and how it always starts with an invitation to get involved.

‘Like the Back of My Hand’ originally installed in their gallery is a great example of how an artwork evolved from a community project to celebrate the millennium to a public artwork installed to help restore Folkestone Central Railway Station. Its journey continues to evolve as it stands as both a gateway to the town and a memorial to all those who have passed.

It is a timely subject that resonates with us as we begin several projects which place the emphasis on the process of co creation and engagement. Our clients understand the benefits too, as we start to plan extensive community progammes interacting with new residents and local schools. Artists are planning planting and landscape interventions, artist led walks, environmental art workshops, invitations to share photos and memories of former workplaces and mentoring. Knowing and hearing about organisations with a strong track record in delivering this type of work helps to demonstrate how successful this can be.

We know that meaningful engagement takes time, time for the artist to find the right approach, time to find the team to find the right connections and time to allow people to understand what the invitation is.

Brigitte has been working as an artist in her hometown for over 20 years and Strange Cargo have been operating for over 30 years, so they know a thing or two about the challenges and rewards of working with large groups of people. Take a listen now to hear her commitment and passion on how the power of art can help celebrate people & places. Subscribe to ‘Talking Public Art’ through your favourite podcast platform