Spectres of Evaluation
Centre for Cultural Partnerships
Rethinking: Art, Community, Value
An international arts conference presented by The Centre for Cultural Partnerships, VCA & MCM, University of Melbourne & Footscray Community Arts Centre.
Brief
Spectres of Evaluation is based on exploring both quantitative and qualitative methodologies in ways that captured value and that are also critical, addressing the potential harm of artistic intervention. The research also positions community cultural practice in relation both to a global arena and in relation to so called ‘high art’.
Hybrid Expression were commissioned to create a conference program to distribute online for the conference which previews and collates presentation abstracts, speaker bios, conference schedule and an artistic program. The publication also served as an archive of what took place. The design needed to be bold, critical and carry authority. Structured to compliment and not compete with artistic images. Ground ideas and prepare the audience for important conversations.
Solution
An ebook publication was developed to be used by delegates in preparation for the conference in choosing their sessions, whom to network with, and read some background information on the discussion themes.
The Centre for Cultural Partnerships and Footscray Community Arts Centre also where able to use the ebook as a marketing tool to bring together a diverse audience for the event. Audience included the intersection of academics, policy makers, artists and arts workers interested in the community sector.
Results
Spectres of Evaluation international conference was a huge success with the workshops and presentations spread out over the 2 day event being booked to (over) capacity with over 400 people attending on the banks of the Maribyrnong River at Footscray Community Arts Centre in Melbourne, Australia. The publication had been so well received by speakers, delegates and artists, the decision to obtain a ISBN was made to see the publication archived for future research.
Hybrid Expression also assisted with way-finding design for the event and received an unexpected acknowledgement of appreciation for the services delivered during the Official Opening by Dr Lachlan MacDowall. It definitely gave us the warm fuzzies on the day!
An Artistic program was also developed by Hybrid Expression for the event which showcased the works of the Artists involved. These works were displayed in joint locations: Footscray Community Arts and Incinerator Gallery, with the opening held at Incinerator Gallery.
Photo credit Spectres of Evaluation International Conference, Centre for Cultural Partnerships, University of Melbourne and Footscray Community Arts Centre, 2014, Daniela Rodriguez Photography
