Experiments In Collective Agency
Beginn des PhD-Programms / Start of the PhD-Program: SS 2018
Betreuung / Supervision:
Giaco Schiesser (ZHdK)
N.N.
Participatory Performances as Investigative Tool in the Context of Global Migration
Current migration phenomena are reshaping our world at a speed that is difficult to grasp. More and more, experts and non-experts are engaging in the issue, inventing solutions to ensure integration and social cohesion in their local context. In situations where each individual can contribute to shape the responses to a phenomena in constant transformation, how is knowledge created and exchanged?
The project investigates the potential of a repeated participatory practice as an exploration method in three cities affected by migration flows. It uses the process of setting up temporary collective kitchen in different urban settings to create social interaction and invite mixed groups of participants (migrants and non-migrants, artists, activists, civil society actors) to exchange around the migration topic through making. Each participatory performance is intended to test platforms to engage with local constellations of individuals and share knowledge and strategies for socially-engaged action. Through defined preparation, documentation and diffusion methods, the research investigates how the process of implementing each participatory performance can in itself shed light on the challenges brought on by integration in a specific location. The research focuses on testing techniques and methods to gather knowledge on some of the local issues brought on by this topic and foster exchange between individuals simultaneously taking action to address these challenges in their respective environment.
Kurz-Biographie / Short Bio
Manon Fantini is an architect and artist from Switzerland. With a focus on Participation and mutual aid, her independent works explores processes encouraging communal improvisation as a way to exchange around migration topics. In 2017, she co-founded the Association We Are Here Zürich, organising participatory performances in temporary asylum seeker reception centers in Zürich. She is now regularly implementing projects in and outside Switzerland, exploring 'together making' with various co-creators in the context of gallery spaces, festivals or exhibitions.