In just the last week I have seen some incredible initiatives being setup to help combat the difficulties that us artists are facing in these trying times. After Thursday’s webinar on artists’ wellbeing (video to come), I have spent a few days thinking about how as a community we can continue to connect and support one another.
I get a lot of you reaching out to me when what we could all be doing is reaching out to each other. Let me help facilitate that.
Join us on Slack
Slack is a bit like an online chat app (and much more!) that’s useful for teams working together. It’s completely free, easy to use and can be used across both your computer and mobile devices. It means we can replace this top-down approach (meaning me e-mailing you), so that everyone can speak up and work together. I’ll still e-mail you regularly, but I’ll expect more interaction via the Slack app.
In the coming days and weeks I’ll be relying on you, and Slack, to think about how the Arts & Health Hub can support its members. Our monthly peer groups may be on hold, but together we can develop innovative ways to connect and support one another. That’s what we do as artists: we innovate.
What can I use Slack for?
- Got an idea about running a peer group in Norwich? Great, pop it on Slack and let all of us see so you can organise together.
- Got a new project but need some tips or advice? Let us help you. You can securely upload files and share your information.
- Worried about how COVID-19 will affect you being self-employed? Let’s all pool resources and advice.
- Fancy putting together a creative activity that we can collaboratively work on over these times of isolation? Let’s do it!
- Wanting to organise a weekly artist wellbeing meeting over a video call? Pop it on Slack, let’s do this together.
Plus much more. I’m flexible with how you use this new tool, but remember, there are some terms & conditions.
How do I join?
If you’re already a Hub member (with an active account), get in touch and an invite will be sent out. If you’re not a member already, simply register here (it’s free!) and we’ll send you an invite by e-mail. Once you’ve made a Slack account, you should be directed to our Arts & Health Hub Slack space.
Slack can be used:
- As a desktop app/programme on both Mac and Windows;
- On mobile devices using iOS (Apple) or Android. Search your app stores and download.
I know using new technology can be difficult for some people. Please do let me know if you need any additional support and I will do what I can to make this accessible to you.
Some of you asked why we do not have a Facebook group. That’s because Facebook steal your data. That’s not nice. Slack doesn’t.
