Hive Mind Speaks: Pioneering UK Platform Harnesses Art to Turn Public Voices Into Policy
Hive Mind Speaks is proud to announce its arrival as the first organisation in the UK to harness the power of art interventions to address critical issues, directly with organised participatory democracy forums, creating unique platforms where real people, not just politicians, can deliberate on critical issues and policies that affect people’s day to day lives.
Today marks a key milestone as Hive Mind Speaks, led by artist and activist Red Jay, aka Joshua Oliver, officially submits the findings of the NHS65 Citizens’ Assembly to Health Secretary Wes Streeting and the Department of Health, following the submission of their findings already to the NHS change initiative. This submission completes the first full cycle of a new, pioneering model of arts activism, one designed not just to start conversations, but to push for real action and change.
The organisation’s motto they strive towards is:
Artistic Intervention x Public Deliberation = Policy Transformation
Inspired by a combination of the likes of Led By Donkeys, Banksy, Greta Thunberg and many grassroots advocacy movements, Red Jay is creating a unique space where the intersection of artistic intervention, critical social issues and participatory democracy meet. Hive Mind Speaks starts by launching bold, creative art projects to shine a spotlight on big challenges, then invites the public into organised forums to talk through solutions, making sure those ideas reach decision makers, those with the power to make a difference.
“As far as I can see from my research, there are some artists and organisations operating in a similar capacity, like Tania Brugeaura and Theaster Gates in the US and Yara + Davina in the UK, but no one is combining artistic installations with organised participatory democracy forums quite like in the way we have done.” says Red Jay. “As such, our aim is to make participatory democracy not only accessible, but exciting. By inviting people to engage with art, then deliberate on the issues raised through citizens’ assemblies, juries and one day referendums, we’re creating a space where everyone can have a direct say in the decisions that shape our lives.”
