Empowered by ... Herstories 

Project description

The Empowered by  … Herstories project explores the narrative of British women, alongside teenage girls.  The work intends to co-creatively communicate the narrative of a real historical or living inspirational character and explore how her life can be an inspiration to contemporary young people. There will be the opportunity for young women to learn about inspirational figures and use a range of artistic techniques in the creation of simple theatrical costume accessories to tell their story.  The process involves learning, adding their input, ideas and potentially making costume components which they would be comfortable to wear and be photographed in and or artistic outputs to be photographed with. The idea is to create inspiring photographs and video content both, for physical display, promotion online and potentially through publishing the work in print and through competitions.  

Aim of the research

The purpose of this study is to create new images to explore how documentary/constructed photography be used as a means to combat discrimination against women and highlight their achievements.   Participants are empowered as part of the process of creation to inspire social change.  The idea is to reach new and younger audiences helping them access inspiring contemporary photographs that tell the story of inspiring women, outside of traditional gallery settings.  

EMPOWERMENT through PARTICIPATION

Each participant will work with me, with parental supervision and in accordance with ethical guidelines, safeguarding procedures and risk assessments, as part of my PhD research through Arts University Bournemouth.  Where applicable, there may be opportunities for selected participants to obtain an Arts Awards qualification as part of the process.  The highest of these, the GOLD Award, represents a significant body of work, with a leadership component, usually relating to passing on knowledge to others, our exhibiting work and knowledge produced.  It carries the equivalent value of 16 UCAS points.  The aim is to offer empowerment opportunity, enhanced confidence, education, experience and artistic development to all involved.  

The participant may be interviewed and documented throughout the process, but only referred to publicly by their first name.  Other data is kept anonymous.  Applications are also welcomed on behalf of young people not currently accessing mainstream education for a variety of reasons.  Each young person is being carefully matched with a role model they 'connect with' and is able to respond to the process in a way that suits them.  All communication is done jointly with parent/guardian and robust ethics and safeguarding procedures are in place.  Empowerment and inspiration are at the heart of the project. 

PROJECT PILOT:

February 2024 saw the launch of the Empowered by HILDA COLES project.  This was funded and made collaboratively with The Museum of East Dorset, to highlight its founder, Hilda Coles.  Initial illustrations were made by Scenographer and Community Artist, Sophie Fretwell and adapted by teen, Emma, based on her own interpretation of Hilda's narrative.  A skirt was made using images of the original, business accounts ledgers, hand written by Hilda Coles and 'buttons' were added with tiny historical photographs of the real Hilda's child and adult life.  A Museum 'replica' custom bag was made by costume maker, Nancy Beardall and a narrative rich jacket was made to highlight elements of Hilda (known as Mick's) story.  The content is currently being exhibited at Museum of East Dorset, UK.

'I feel truly inspired to showcase this character; it's a sense of achievement for me. Connecting with this impactful woman has been an empowering confidence builder. I particularly enjoyed embodying her and creating a statement piece of a strong, confident character, which I surprised myself at doing."  - teen participant, Emma

"The impact of women’s history might seem abstract to some, and less pressing than the immediate struggles of working women today. But to ignore the vital role that women’s dreams and accomplishments play in our own lives would be a great mistake. We draw strength and inspiration from those who came before us – and those remarkable women working among us today. They are part of our story, and a truly balanced and inclusive history recognizes how important women have always been.’ - The National Women's History Alliance

A second project took place in collaboration with teen, Alina, to highlight the achievements of 'Britain's first feminist', Mary Wollstonecraft. A wet plate colloidal image was made, alongside a handwritten journal produced by Alina herself.

To discuss or apply to take part in this project, please contact: jaynejacksonphotography@gmail.com  

NOTE: There are no physical requirements, but participants should ideally be aged (13-19 and female / LGBTQIA+).   

Collaborators 

Nancy Beardall: https://19th-century-tailoring.co.uk

Sophie Fetwell: https://sophiefretwell.wixsite.com/portfolio/about

Museum of East Dorset - https://museumofeastdorset.co.uk/