Jo Bushell of Chalkblack

As a social practice artist Jo’s work encourages deeper connection and understanding of specific environments/heritage/ourselves in relation to community and ecology. Her approach lends itself to working in community projects, schools and with individuals who are seeking creative processes for navigating transitions or need to communicate collectively, bringing diverse voices together to effect change. Her practice is informed by 16 years experience of working in adult drug and alcohol services and youth services.

Jo’s creative background is performance-based; using methods and materials which are temporary and responsive – creating site-specific processes, informed by heritage and diverse story, that allow for our own or our collective becoming.

Jo networks and collaborates with other social practice artists across Bristol including Bristol Artist Led Forum and is a member of Diverse Artist Network. She was, until recently, Co-lead of DIY Cultural Spaces Group. She is also collaborating and developing environmental projects with both Southampton University and UWE and currently developing a Covid19 ‘returning curriculum’ and wellbeing project for schools. She is currently Artist Producer for Bricks (bricksbristol.org) on the St Anne's Creative Community Mapping project.

http://chalkblack.com

‘Through my practice I hope to legitimise a more truthful, connected existence; encouraging those who participate in it to become more authentic, creative participants in their individual contexts’.