With the use of several pop up PAR (participatory action research) sessions Arts and Cultural Development officers are gaining an increasing understanding of the communities in which they work. These sessions have assisted officers in developing ‘cultural maps’ of their regions which in turn will provide clues to how they can best enhance the arts and arts activities within their area.
Country Arts SA’s Cultural Development officer ran a series of creative PAR sessions involving simple low cost activities to engage passers by.
Through ‘Chalk it up’ – people were invited to write in chalk on the footpath a response to ‘what I like about this town’.
During ‘Re-framing’ participants used their body to create a frame through which to photograph a familiar local item, encouraging them to look at it in a new way.
With ‘Feet First’ locals were asked to print their painted foot onto a banner to be used to promote active lifestyles.
“Its fabulous” says Tis “that the community development team at Mid Murray Council are embracing a collaborative approach to building community capacity”.
Country Arts SA pays respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and recognises their continuing connection and spiritual relationship to these lands, waters and skies. We are committed to listening and helping care for Country, and to safeguard, share and celebrate First Nations’ living cultures.