Reclaiming Words

On the 10th of May I was invited to Blackpool’s Creatives Network to speak about my practice and new work The Room.  Hosted by the Blackpool Grand Theatre, the network is an open space for creatives to gather, speak and listen to one another (as we all know being an independent creative can be very lonely at times) as well as seek and share advice/expertise.

As well as having a good old moan about the challenges facing art in schools (all art forms!) at GCSE and A Level, which, by the way is having a detrimental impact on submission no’s for HE and as a result THE CULTURAL SECTOR, we were also able to have open discussions around identity and diversity.

What’s PC and what’s not PC?  Is that the right thing to say?  What does non-binary mean?  The differences between SEX and GENDER and that you can be non-binary (gender) and still female (sex).

My research has taken me further in understanding the complexities of sexual and gender identity, however I still have further to go. Openness, patience and knowledge leads to a greater understanding and acceptance of individuals.

Massive thanks to Celine and Jo for offering such a valuable resource for independent artists, teachers and creatives.  Being part of an org I understand the challenges they face – money is tight and demand for results greater.

briggsy

Image: David Forrest