FLOCK is a collaborative participatory making project, which enables a large number children and young people to gain hands on experience with clay. The project concept was created by Frances Ross and developed with Upland via its membership proposal scheme.
FLOCK gives young people the chance to get clay under their fingernails and experience the transformational power of ceramics. The project supports curriculum learning by working with teachers to provide high quality creative experiences in the classroom, foster a sense of place and belonging, and culminate in a large-scale participatory artwork made by and for the children / young people of the region.
Artists and participants will create a large portable installation comprising a large number of individually made, bespoke hand-modelled ceramic birds. These would be created by individual participants with the intention to then be displayed as one large group - the flock – creating a colourful spectacle with a strong visual impact. It has the flexibility to be presented outdoors and/or indoors at one or more sites throughout the region. The installation will be exhibited at Spring Fling Open Studios 2026.
FLOCK pilot March 2024
FLOCK phase 2 January - March 2025
FLOCK phase 3 September 2025 - April 2026