Project Type:
Community and connectivity, diversity, identity
Artists:
Karina Nachbar and Mary Branley
Dates:
May 2022
Location:
Coolock, Cabra and Ballyfermot Libraries
Partners:
Dublin City Council’s Creative Hubs
Big Little Library Project
Over six days in May 2022, artist Karina Nachbar and writer Mary Branley engaged with 11 schools and around 256 young people in Dublin libraries to make books. This community publishing initiative with school children took part in Coolock, Cabra and Ballyfermot libraries.
The artist and writer provided a space for local school children – within the democratic environment of their local library – to make books, and develop artwork and stories that explore themes of identity and belonging, nature and the built environment, community and connectivity, and diversity of language and experience. A conversational approach with the writer allowed the children to talk openly and freely about their own experiences and ideas. Kids’ Own work is largely rooted in non-fiction, a process that recognises children as the experts in their own lives and gives credence and visibility to their real lived experiences.
A big thank you to Coolock, Cabra and Ballyfermot libraries for all their help and support in providing a space for these creative sessions to take place. This project was commissioned by Dublin City Council’s Creative Hubs. Creative Hubs are an initiative of Dublin City Arts Office and Dublin City Libraries to sustain high-quality arts experiences for children to access in their library and locality through partnership.
