Overview
The commission was a response to some of the issues affecting young people in Northern Ireland today, and involved a collaborative research, engagement and co-production process. Drawing on themes of empowerment and change, Caslin transformed the facade of Downhill House with a large-scale wall-based work, which was further enlivened through an augmented reality (AR) experience. The central design of the work drew on ideas and experiences of members of the collective, and incorporated symbols of femininity, care giving and an upward facing gaze to represent hopes and aspirations for the future.
This temporary, paper-based artwork was made using biodegradable materials. It remained in place for several weeks before it was naturally washed away.
Image Gallery
Communities and Places
The Kindred Collective was made up of young women from different areas of Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Through a nine-month process of engagement and co-creation, the collective supported Caslin to create a piece of work that reflects societal conflict, empowerment and change.
The artwork was accompanied by an app that generated an immersive augmented reality (AR) experience. This allowed visitors to unlock the meaning behind the work through a multi-layered experience. The app could be used inside the house to listen to personal stories recorded by the Collective and for members of the community to record their own hopes for the future.
During the launch weekend, a series of events were hosted by the Kindred Collective to explore the artwork’s themes with visitors. Activities included a placard making workshop, a Seanchoiche storytelling session and a concert.
Watch Film
A short case study film about We Can Do Better
Find Out More
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The Kindred Collective explore the impact of We Can Do Better and explain what it was like to co-create the artwork with artist Joe Caslin.