Over six months into the ‘Resilient and Resisting’ project. That sounds weird to say, as it’s not a ‘project’, it’s not something I see as a finite piece of work. It’s an expanding series of relationships, events, conversations, crossovers. What I’m trying to frame by using the word ‘project’ is this experience of having FUNDING. Having some resources, being able to put on events without having to worry about how to pay for things, having the weight of the words ‘Heritage Lottery Funded’ to add to my hustle, it.helps. At the same time it has been an *interesting* experience to work with official bodies and institutions, some (the vast majority) have been amazing, people using their powers for good. Forget that one pointless blister. Everyday, no matter how stressed or tired I feel, I am SO BLOODY GRATEFUL to be able to do my work.
A huge part of this, not at all down to money is about the improvement in my health over the past 2 years. I can get out of bed and hustle those opportunities, I’m not able to do that everyday. But there is SOME energy, something to push with, and I’m able to have many beautiful, enlightening, moving and empowering conversations. With those who tell me their stories, those who come to events, those who read or transcribe, who share in some way. I have always tried to make work that WORKS. Writing/performance/actions that place themselves at an intersection of community, political events, need. Work that helps us to see each other and ourselves more clearly, where we can reflect each other in positive ways that the outside world does not give us. This feels like a very private kind of work, because often what feel like the most important parts of it seem to happen in people’s homes, in bedrooms and living rooms, around kitchen tables, or in small gatherings. Catalyst conversations, feelings, recognitions, where WE share and feel our own value. Moments where the action of speaking and listening to our shared brave secrets causes a welling up of power and emotion.
Yes, it’s GOLDEN these days.
