Thursday 12 January 2017

Mary Strickson on Derby Makers Faire







On Saturday 21st October Illuminate ran a stand at Derby Mini Maker’s Faire, hosted by Hannah Satchwell and Callum Mulligan. I went along to explore the fair and get a feel for everything it offered as well as documenting the event.

It had a friendly and welcoming atmosphere and was fun for all ages. The stalls were made up of arts and crafts, technology and science, experimental and visual! There was something for everyone from water colour painting, to coding!

Our stand was an interactive collaborative art installation featuring visual projections. When a visitor touched the strings of the woven web, the projection changed. Whether lines were added, the colour altered or the design switched, it was fun to interact with! We received really positive feedback from visitors who enjoyed getting involved.

Using their bodies to complete the circuit and create art, proved a fun experience mixing technology and creativity. We also asked for ideas of how to gain feedback from audiences, as Hannah and Callum have been commissioned to create some kind of feedback machine. There were some interesting responses!

I explored the rest of the fair and found it was absolutely packed with things to make and do. The fair was constantly busy and people evidently enjoyed their time here. There was everything from independent designer makers, robotics, crafts and programming! The variety was huge- whatever your interests there was something here to keep you entertained. I enjoyed my day visiting the fair and getting involved with both art and technology.

Images also by Mary Strickson 
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