‘…consider how the arts and contemporary theory structure “the commons” anew: how the commons becomes both a goal and a trope in post-millennial art and cultural theory.’ (Amy J. Elias)
Commoning should have these three elements present in practice or theory: 1) a pool of natural and/or human resources, 2) a community of people with reciprocal and sharing relations, 3) acts of working together towards the reproduction of the community (De Angelis 2017)
PRIMARY THOUGHTS- i began to think about spaces where the commons is possible and shared spaces i have been a part of:
warehouse living– shared living spaces for approx 18 people that includes a shared studio space used by artists, musicians and mostly textile/fashion designers.
whitechapel gallery– shared alleyway space between the gallery (side entrance), Freedom bookshop, various office space and sex workers. artists and collectives are involved to theorise the potential of this space and ensure it is used in a creative and safe space for all.
libraries– free to use and be a part of. a space where you can read, chat, use computer facilities individually or together. librarians must have a social awareness of people who use this space or vulnerable people who may require they’re help.
in class we talked a lot about various spaces in Edinburgh (something we need to explore further), who can use them and the good this brings to people and their community. we discussed specific places that we know of, mostly previously abandoned sites that have been recovered for a community-led purpose e.g. Beijing underground bomb shelters, 798 art zone, world peace garden. we aim to look at how these spaces are used, maintained, relationships to council, threats to this space and the community around them.
learning about Collective gallery, calton hill, being a common good asset made me think of the ‘good’ that comes from having land/monuments/other property within this common good status. is it important to be aware of this? what changes when we know this?
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