ARTiFAB (2023-2026)

The European Social Fund (ESF) funded ARTiFAB is a continuation to Make4Change project. The project was based on our results and experiences from make4change, this time weaving in more art and self expression. The project continues to addresses the digital divide in the Oulu region by offering workshops that combine digital fabrication and art to individuals who are unemployed or outside the workforce.

We conduct workshops where participants engage in social discussions on contemporary issues such as sustainable development and environmental protection, using projects that blend digital fabrication and art. Each workshop lasts approximately 10 hours. During the sessions, participants can create innovative works, such as designing light effects for interpretive dance by integrating electronics, programming, and laser cutting, or using 3D technology to craft sculptures that communicate visually as well as through music or speech. The workshops are organized in cooperation with local actors from the cultural and artistic fields, and those working with persons currently unemployed or outside of working life.

The creations produced by the youth participating in the workshops during the project are showcased in an art exhibitions during and after the project – For example the artwork created by the youth during our first workshop concept – the “Selfie Lightbox“, have been featured in local events like Researcher’s night, ITEE Oulu discovery quest, Super FabLab Oulu birthday celebration and Lumo Light festival.

The novelty of the ARTiFAB project arises from emphasizing the role of art and the creative process in addition to digital fabrication. The combination is current and supports the goals of Oulu’s European Capital of Culture 2026 program. We believe that the combination will inspire those who have not previously been interested in technology to participate and learn the skills of the future, improving their ability to work and study. We emphasize the participants’ finding their own voice and way of expression, as well as entrepreneurship and opportunities for self-employment created from this combination.

My main duties in ARTiFAB relate to project management and communication. I also carry out independent research, and support PhD students and fablab instructors in workshop planning, data collection and analysis. I also support in facilitating hands-on workshops when needed, and take the lead in curating an art shows after the different workshop cycles.

ARTiFAB is still in it’s early steps. During the first year we created a concept for workshops exploring identity through light art in collaboration with local artist John Collingswood. Currently we are working on our second workshop concept exploring Safe Spaces with Shima Salehi. You can read more e.g. through the following blog posts: