Research
This page will contain off of the research I did for this project.
What are cultural projects
Define culture
(Edward, T. 1871) defines culture as a collective of achievements and socialisation of civilisation. Demonstrating our progress as a society and documentation of our practices such as language, science, and politics. Whilst (International, Ua. 2021) agrees, they also state that there is a deeper definition of culture. Culture decides how a person views the world and how they interact with other people. They explain how culture defines societies themselves and how culture is passed down through generations.
So what are cultural projects?
(Mir Sanabria, G.B., Reynaldo, A.S. and Mendos, I.G. 2021) Describe cultural projects as a time-sensitive objective that requires both material resources and cultural knowledge gained from the community to produce. They state that cultural projects have significance within the community and often have the goal of furthering knowledge or helping understand the social and natural world. This shows that cultural projects are multifaceted and show significance to the local community by developing social and spiritual dynamics for the individuals involved. (Dell’era, C. 2010) states that cultural projects integrate artistic expressions into their branding and development of products to invoke emotion and value in the consumers, these often involve designers and cultural creators to help create symbolic meaning that resonates with the community which can sometimes border on cultural and social conversations which can provoke reflection and stimulate creativity.
Why are cultural projects important?
Cultural projects help brands connect with their customer base by shifting their perceptions to associate the brand with specific cultural values. Brands create an impact with art, fashion, and cultural expressions to create a societal impact that should significantly affect the business's success provided that the projects have a positive impact on the community states (Dell’era, C. 2010). (Romanelli, M. 2021) agrees, stating that cultural projects do engage audiences on important topics with the use of the arts. Furthermore, They provide artists with a platform to share their perspectives facilitate the preservation and cultivation of cultural heritage, and help connect people from all cultural backgrounds. This can promote inclusivity and diversity within a community as well as foster the social progression of a vibrant society.
From this research, we have concluded that we are a cultural project. We provide an inclusive space that invokes a broader conversation on societal norms. As an art collective, we could, would, and should use this as a platform to promote creativity and diversity in our community. We want to enrich our brand with cultural heritage and spiritual significance so that our consumers can see that we share the same values as them. Hopefully, this would allow our business to be successful in not only the financial department but also our societal impact on the alternative community.
How to create a safe space
According to (Design Patterns for Mental Health n.d.) Design patterns for creating safe spaces in mental health services and products are crucial for protecting vulnerable individuals. The first priority is implementing robust safeguarding practices, which involve procedures to prevent maltreatment, impairment, and harm while promoting safety and positive outcomes. This includes having clear policies that staff understand for responding to any safeguarding concerns raised by service users. Creating psychologically safe environments where people feel comfortable taking interpersonal risks without fear of judgment or criticism is also vital. This can be fostered through mutual respect, emotional warmth, protecting privacy, and active inclusion of all backgrounds.
Another key aspect is providing mechanisms for users to pause interactions or communicate potential risks if they feel unsafe, such as an abusive partner entering during an online session. Services should assess the suitability and privacy of platforms used, follow age guidance, reduce potential online harms through moderation and data protection, and give clear instructions on how user data will be handled. Allowing routes to anonymity when appropriate and being transparent about confidentiality limitations are other important safety measures. Feedback channels should feel secure so users can improve services without fearing repercussions.
Finally, the safety needs of supporters and caregivers assisting service users in crisis must also be considered and met when feasible. Overall, implementing these safe space design patterns through intentional practices around safeguarding, psychological safety, privacy, and a trauma-informed approach is crucial for effectively delivering mental health services and products to vulnerable populations.
Why we are doing this
Sophie Lancaster
On August 11, 2007, 20-year-old Sophie Lancaster, who identified as a "goth" and enjoyed dressing alternatively, was walking through Stubbylee Park in Bacup, Lancashire with her boyfriend Robert Maltby. They encountered a group of drunken youths who followed and initiated an unprovoked attack on the couple. Robert was knocked unconscious after being kicked repeatedly in the head. When Sophie tried to cradle and protect him, the gang viciously turned on her, taking turns stamping on her head while encouraging each other's brutality.
Both Sophie and Robert sustained severe injuries and were rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Robert eventually recovered after being in a coma with brain bleeding, though he suffers from memory loss. Tragically, Sophie's injuries were catastrophic - after 13 days in a coma, the decision was made to remove her from life support on August 24, 2007. Five teenagers were arrested, two of whom - Ryan Herbert and Brendan Harris - were found guilty of Sophie's murder and sentenced to life imprisonment.
The judge condemned the attackers' "feral thuggery," stating their violence degraded humanity itself since their only motivation was that Sophie and Robert looked different. In 2022, Herbert was approved for release on parole after 15 years, with the Parole Board citing his "exceptional progress" and remorse. However, Sophie's mother Sylvia, who founded a prejudice prevention charity in her daughter's memory, expressed that no sentence feels sufficient for such a senseless crime driven by hatred and intolerance. (Baker, N. and Donaldson, L. 2023)
Niche markets in the community
Cathouse - From the Cathouse website, this information was provided. The Cathouse is a rock club distinguished for supporting alternative music scenes such as rock, punk, and metal. The club provides three floors each with a different style of music to appeal to different niches in the alternative scene. To make sure the club remains inclusive for members of the community, they take multiple steps to make sure people who are differently abled and/or part of the LGBTQ+ are looked after. This includes gender-neutral toilets, wheels chair accessibility, lowered seating in the venue area, sensory bags (ear defenders/earplugs, a stress ball, and a sunflower lanyard to discreetly identify hidden disabilities to staff) and autism-friendly rooms if the club becomes too stimulating.
Businesses similar to ours
Orphea Photography
Based in Belgium Europe, Cathy, the owner of the studio, is an ethereal and gothic photographer who is herself a goth and has always felt like an outsider so she decided to create a studio for people in her community to feel comfortable and confident within themselves. She has 15 years of experience behind a camera and has been available at the studio for the last 4 years. She also creates business photography, weddings, boudoir, and cosplay photography
What they offer
Cathy offers full studio experience at Orphea Photography. She has a basic package at €350 which includes a 1hour - 1hour 30 shoot time, 10 basic edited images, and €50 print credit in PicTime. She has set some extras that could be added on which include -
Makeup by Orphea: €50
MUAH or body paint €100 -? to be paid directly to the artist.
Styling rental fee €25 from the Orphea wardrobe which can include clothing, armour, swords, jewellery, and more.
An extra hour of photography €150 each plus 5 extra basic edited images.
Plus travel costs at €.50 km from Belgium.
In addition to her studio experience, she offers workshops and courses. Currently, she offers a headpiece workshop where you go into the studio with all supplies provided and create a headpiece per her guidance but with your full creativity. This workshop is €150
Ingrida I. Portretistė
This article showcases the incredible gothic-style photo studio created by Ingrida I. Portretistė in Vilnius, Lithuania - reportedly the first and only such studio in the country. Over 4-6 months, Ingrida and her husband painstakingly constructed the studio from scratch, painting the walls, ceiling and floors themselves. They repurposed and refurbished items found in dumpsters, flea markets and gifted by friends to create the haunting, cluttered decor filled with curiosities like animal bones, mannequins and oddities.
The studio features distinct areas like a Victorian-inspired living room with a curiosity cabinet, a dark forest bedroom with a canopy bed made from real branches, and a red-walled sitting area with a leather ghost figure. Many accessories were handmade or reused, adhering to a zero-waste philosophy. Though expensive, with just creative improvisation on a limited budget, Ingrida achieved her lifelong dream of an authentically gothic space that feels both cozy and unsettling.
What inspires me
My interior design style is heavily influenced by architecture as I am very inspired by old ornate buildings especially of the gothic period. I'm also a lover of nature and think, although unrealistic, that every building should be partially over run by nature trying to take it's space back. Below are some images that vaguely portray my style.
One of the accounts I am most inspired by when it comes to gothic/creepy interior design is Skye Hall who is an artist who owns a business called QueenOfSkulls. her business is a bit out there, she decorates animal skulls and sells them. I love her moody eclectic style and that her business is crafted for a very niche community.
Another influencer I like to follow is Tayl_or_treat. Her design style leans more halloweeney and a little witchy at times. Her use of colour, plants and ornaments add a lot of dimension and texture to her household. Though it may look busy to some this style brings organic and vintage vibes to the house giving it a more homely feel.
Location
Inspiration
My initial idea for a location was an abandoned crypt in Scotland as I had seen it before and I thought it would be a fantastic spot for a shoot. After looking into it a bit though it is really far south in Scotland and would take too long to travel down to for a one day shoot. But I knew I wanted to do a similar vibe to it.
Research
Dunfermline Abbey and Palace stand as iconic remnants of Scotland's rich history, nestled in the heart of Dunfermline. The Abbey, founded in the 11th century by Queen Margaret, exudes grandeur with its towering spires and intricate stonework, serving as a testament to Scotland's religious heritage. Adjacent to the Abbey, the Palace, once a royal residence, showcases stunning architectural features spanning centuries of monarchic rule. Together, they form a captivating complex steeped in royal and religious significance, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at their beauty and immerse themselves in Scotland's regal past.
Dunfermline Abbey and Palace offer a mesmerising blend of medieval and Renaissance interior design. Within the Abbey, ancient stone walls adorned with intricate carvings create a sense of grandeur, while towering stained glass windows cast colourful beams of light across the cavernous space, evoking a divine atmosphere. In contrast, the Palace's interiors exude regal opulence, with rich tapestries, ornate furnishings, and intricately painted ceilings transporting visitors to a bygone era of royal splendour. Together, they offer a captivating journey through centuries of architectural and design evolution, immersing visitors in the lavish lifestyles of Scotland's past rulers. (Historic Environment Scotland n.d.)
Pathhead Baptist Church in Kirkcaldy, Scotland, stands as a beacon of community and faith. With a rich history dating back to its founding in 1922, it has been a place of worship, fellowship, and outreach. The church offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, where individuals and families can come together to explore their spirituality and grow in their relationship with God. Through its various ministries and programs, Pathhead Baptist Church serves not only its congregation but also reaches out to the broader community, striving to make a positive impact and spread love and compassion to all who enter its doors.
Nestled in Kirkcaldy, Pathhead Baptist Church offers a serene escape with its thoughtful interior design. The sanctuary exudes tranquility with its soft lighting, cozy seating, and warm color palette, inviting worshippers to find solace and peace. Elegant stained glass windows illuminate the space, casting colourful patterns that dance across the polished wooden floors. The altar serves as the focal point, adorned with tasteful decor that reflects the church's reverence and spiritual significance. Whether attending a service, wedding, or community event, visitors can't help but be captivated by the church's harmonious blend of aesthetics and spirituality, creating a truly memorable experience. (Pathhead Baptist Church n.d.)
Reflection
Experience
For my part in the collective I have researched interior designers and locations.But before all this I first started looking in what are cultural projects? and why are they important? from this I then delved into projects that are similar to ours. looking at the pros and cons of running a business like that and how to market and advertise. A big part of Kaptured Majik is creating a safe space for members of Fifes alternative community, so I decided to look in to why is is important to create safe spaces. Looking at the tragic story of Sophie Lancaster. Once I had completed this research I moved on to the interior design aspects. First looking influencers that inspired me this their alternative interior design style. To complete my research I look at a couple of locations that I thought we could take inspiration from aswell as possibly hire out for the project.
Refection
Looking at all the information I can take piece from each section and use that for this project. In particular Sophie Lancasters story really moved me. It broke my heart to think that people can be so cruel. This story is one of many that has pushed us to create this collective and for me personally, it makes me want to work harder and produce the best work I can for this project. Going forward I always want to treat people with kindness no matter the circumstance. Following on from this I then looked into how to create safe spaces. I learned that a safe space is not particularly a specific physical space, but more of a mindset that is shared by a community of people. When looking at the interior design side, I really loved that these people and places where all alternative but had a big nature aspect to them all. It like nature trying to reclaim its space. I fine this eerily beautiful.
Action
In this project I hope to implement this research into Kaptured Majik by creating sets that are inspired by these alternative vibes and have a whimsy and nature. I really want to do this project right and give back to the alternative community, providing a space that they can call their own.
*Update* - Due to our photographer Jazmin I have not been able to create the sets that I wanted to for this project. She has been exceedingly difficult to work with. She has not provided any work for the collective but is criticising everything we do and acting as though we have no clue what we are doing. Her behaviour has stunted the growth of this collective and Kaptured Majik as a whole.
Bibliography
Baker, N. and Donaldson, L. (2023) What happened to Sophie Lancaster?, The Sun. Available at: https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/4310552/sophie-lancaster-murder-coronation-street/ (Accessed: 03 March 2024).
Cathouse Rock Club (2023) https://cathouse.co.uk/, Cathouse Rock Club. Available at: https://cathouse.co.uk/ (Accessed: 02 March 2024).
Orphea Photography (2024) Quality Fantasy and Gothic photography, Orphea Photography. Available at: https://orphea-photography.be/ (Accessed: 03 March 2024)
Dell’era, C. (2010) ‘Art for Business: Creating Competitive Advantage through cultural projects’, Art for Business: Creating Competitive Advantage through Cultural Projects, 17(1), pp. 71–89. doi:10.1080/13662710903573844.
Design Patterns for Mental Health (n.d.) Create a safe space, Design patterns for Mental Health. Available at: https://designpatternsformentalhealth.org/principles/create-a-safe-space/ (Accessed: 03 March 2024).
Edward B, Tylor.. (1871). Primitive culture: researches into the development of mythology, philosophy, rel. [Comuter]. J. Murrey. Available at: https://archive.org/details/primitivecultur00tylogoog/mode/2up?ref=ol&view=theater [Accessed 3 March 2024].
Historic Environment Scotland (no date) History, History | Historic Environment Scotland. Available at: https://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/dunfermline-abbey-and-palace/history/ (Accessed: 03 March 2024).
International, Ua. (2021) What is culture?, YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yB7WwENGOgw (Accessed: 03 March 2024).
Mir Sanabria, G.B., Reynaldo, A.S. and Mendos, I.G. (2021) The Sociocultural Animation. An Alternative for Cultural Projects. Experience from the University of Las Tunas , HeinOnline. Available at: https://heinonline.org/HOL/Page?collection=journals&handle=hein.journals%2Fopbrv13&id=1103&men_tab=srchresults (Accessed: 03 March 2024).
Pathhead Baptist Church (n.d.) Welcome!, Home. Available at: https://www.kirkcaldy-pathheadbaptist.co.uk/ (Accessed: 03 March 2024).
Portretistė, I.I. (2023) I’ve built the very first Gothic photo studio in Lithuania, Bored Panda. Available at: https://www.boredpanda.com/ive-built-the-very-first-gothic-photo-studio-in-lithuania/ (Accessed: 03 March 2024).
Romanelli, M. (2021) Managing cultural sector projects: Tips & best practices, Project Management Articles, Webinars, Templates and Jobs. Available at: https://www.projecttimes.com/articles/managing-cultural-sector-projects-tips-best-practices/ (Accessed: 03 March 2024).
TUNE (2021) ‘the catty’ | the story of Scotland’s rock music institution the cathouse | tune, YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cuo_bJ0NukU (Accessed: 02 March 2024).