Paper short abstract:

Exploring UK and Mexican community participatory arts, we discuss conceptualisations of a contemporary commonly shared arts practice. International comparisons suggest transnational trends; video documentation illuminates findings. Implications discussed for new insight into creativity and ‘change’.

Paper long abstract:

This paper draws on current ethnographic research exploring community-based, participatory arts practice in the North of England and in Mexico City, questioning whether such art forms, taking shape in sites away from recognised urban contemporary art hubs, can nevertheless contribute in new ways to understandings of creativity, and thereby to a conceptualisation of the link between art and social change.

The task initially is to discuss whether a core, common arts practice can be identified and conceptualised. Noting the value of using an ethnographic approach, and of exploring two entirely discreet national sites, the international comparison is used to question whether, if such a form can be identified at all, the practice can be considered 'transnational', displaying shared characteristics and commonalities that transcend national contextual differences.

Research findings trace recurring commonalities in the practice observed, and in the deeply reflective discussions with practitioners in both countries. Audio-visual documentation is presented to illuminate the practice studied, and to give a direct voice to practitioners and participants, in discussing the work. The discussion draws out convergences and divergences in practice norms in both sites, suggesting indications from these findings of the existence of an emerging, transnational arts practice. The obviously interdisciplinary nature of the practice highlights the value of an anthropological approach to the research, able to focus on the humanity at the heart of the artists' approach and thereby illuminate the unique workings of this expression of creativity, and reflect on its potential value in contemporary societies.