An IASH Work-in-Progress seminar, delivered by Dr Caleb Froehlich (IASH-CTPI Duncan Forrester Fellow; University of St Andrews)
Objects for Art and Peacebuilding among Ukrainian Refugees and Edinburgh Locals
While the outpouring of public support to Ukrainians in the UK has been remarkable since the start of the Ukraine-Russia war (especially among faith-based communities), there are reports of a ‘concerning increase’ of relational breakdown between Ukrainian refugees and British hosts. Within these contexts of uncertainty, dislocation and assimilation, personal and cultural objects take on a peculiar solidity, becoming remnants of experience, identity and memory. But can they also become a means for building constructive and compassionate relationships, promoting the peaceful co-existence of Ukrainians and UK locals? Drawing on observational and interview data with Ukrainian and local Edinburgh participants in music, photography, pottery, loom-weaving, and cooking workshops, this talk examines the role art-making objects play in developing constructive interactions and engagements through co-creative practice and process. It also explores what insights this might provide for theologies and practices of hospitality in faith-based communities.
Please join in-person, or click the link below to join the webinar:
https://ed-ac-uk.zoom.us/j/83178441780
Passcode: Kj7gnpP4