Explore and discuss experiences of reconnecting with people and communities with artist and researcher, Anna Francis and photographer Adina Lawrence.

What is this session about?

The Covid pandemic has had a particular impact on artists and creatives whose work is rooted in people and communities. A changing dynamic of how and where we come together, transforming ways of working over lockdown and as we move forward.

In this session explore how Anna Francis and Adina Lawrence have approached this and the shifts in practice and priorities they have made as a result.

Join in the discussion to share your experiences, concerns with other creative practitioners.

Who is this session for?

This session is for anyone who works with people and communities as part of their creative practice or who is interested in doing so.

Who’s delivering?

Anna Francis, Artist and Researcher

Anna Francis’ work aims to create space to discuss and reframe city resources, through participatory art interventions.

She creates situations for herself, the public and other artists to explore places differently. In recent years the interventions which Anna has worked on focus on the city of Stoke-on-Trent, and use an action research process to recognise untapped resources, plan responses to disused sites in the city, take action to change the way these sites are viewed, and potentially, make changes, which can be temporary and sometimes permanent. Through this, Anna aims to gain an understanding of the role of artists, arts organisations and communities in the development of places.

Anna is Associate Professor of Fine Art and Social Practice at Staffordshire University, and a Director at AirSpace Gallery, and The Portland Inn Project. Born in Canterbury, Kent, she first moved to Stoke-on-Trent in 1997, and now lives here permanently with her partner and two children.

Anna Francis Website

Portland Inn Project Website

Adina Lawrence, Photographer

Adina Lawrence is a Black British portrait photographer who makes portraits of people that show character, personality, strength and diversity. Her pictures are compelling contemporary portraits that tell a story. She is based in Stoke-on-Trent and has BA Hons degree in Photojournalism from Staffordshire University.

Adina Lawrence Recent Work

How to book?

Book your free ticket via Eventbrite.

What is Factory?

This workshop is proudly run as part of the creative business support programme Factory. Factory is a partnership between Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce, Staffordshire University, British Ceramics Biennial and ACAVA. The programme is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund. Visit our main Factory page for more information about other opportunities and workshops run through Factory.