The seminar came about as the result of discussions during a research centre meeting, concerning the concept of 'wellbeing', the destructive nature in inequality and the need to examine strategies of resistance.
This was when it was decided that a seminar be organised, initially entitled: 'Artistic Strategies of Resistance'. Further discussion elicited further ideas surrounding notions of engagement for regeneration: interactivity; use of social networks and social media; tools of interactivity; engagement with people and what it means to be an elder in current social contexts.
The summer riots were discussed with reference to confusion; riot and rioters as performance and performers, and performance of different possible selves.
Annie McKean suggested, in reference to her own prison projects, that performance might be seen as a 'sticking plaster' to cover the expanding 'hole in the dyke' and did not address the inequalities in the prison system.
The seminar will open with keynote speaker, Damian Hebron, (Director, London Arts in Healthcare Forum) who will frame the themes of the event. This will be followed by short inputs from Arts practitioners and academics working at The University of Winchester. They will offer critiques of arts' work related to health and well-being contexts and reflect on the challenges facing their work in the current economic and politcal climate. Attendees will be invited to join the debate and share aspects of their own work.
The seminar, from 5.30 - 7.30pm (refreshments at 5.00pm) will be in Main Building room 5, King Alfred's campus.
Please contact Elizabeth.Scott-Hall, centre adminstrator, before 8th February to reserve a place.