Men in Sheds - Craft for Wellbeing

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

This project explores the intersection of craft, storytelling, and community health, drawing from my doctoral research project that involved working with communities of craftspeople to create a series of artefacts based on individuals’ oral histories. Through the process of learning new skills and making artefacts, participants found a cathartic way to connect and share stories. Glenn Adamson sums up the connection between making, learning and the self perfectly; as you shape the material, it shapes you right back. You are learning the process the whole time that you are engaged in it (Adamson, 2018, p. 28).

In February 2022, I collaborated with the organisation Men in Sheds, which provides opportunities for men and women to “connect, converse, and create” (Home - UK Men's Sheds Association, 2018). At the Ryburn branch, I conducted two basic leatherwork workshops during an open day aimed at encouraging new membership and combating community loneliness. The process of art (and craft as) therapy, as well as allowing for the unburdening of emotions, led to the creation of new meaning and redirection in vulnerable moments (Buser, Buser & Gladding, 2005, p. 180).

I proposed a further series of leather workshops at the shed over a four week period in June and July. These workshops aimed to develop relationships with participants to understand the significance of the Men in Sheds community and how creative activities support their physical and mental health and confidence. Conversations during these workshops will address these themes, including potential health inequalities faced by the Men in Sheds community.
This paper will summarise the outcomes of these workshops, providing insights into how crafting and community engagement foster wellbeing and address social and health inequalities. It will highlight the transformative power of making and storytelling within community settings.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCultures of Creative Health
EditorsRowan Bailey
Place of PublicationHuddersfield
PublisherUniversity of Huddersfield Press
Pages136-139
Number of pages4
Volume4
Edition1
ISBN (Electronic)9781862182394
ISBN (Print)9781862182387
Publication statusPublished - 9 Jan 2025

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