Why I’m interested in Evolving Words….. by Elizabeth Lynch, Director
I enjoy bringing people together across different disciplines and, in particular, working creatively with both scientists and artists. It’s exciting to explore common ground and complementary approaches to engaging young people with science. We want to inspire young people to be curious about the impact of evolutionary theory. Artists and scientists share some common approaches to exploring ideas – curiosity, the gathering of evidence, selection, critical thinking, making imaginative connections and creativity.
Evolving Words is taking on different characteristics in each city. The artist/scientist/curator partnerships in each place are developing projects that embrace a range of approaches to the social, political and cultural impact of Darwin’s science. After our two-day workshop at the Sanger Institute I know that the flavour of the sessions with young people will be playful and investigative, informative and imaginative. I look forward to seeing and hearing the work generated as 2009 unfolds.
More about Elizabeth…
An independent creative producer, she works with organisations, artists and young people to produce inspirational projects and events. Elizabeth also advises organisations on strategic development and mentors both established and emerging artists.
As a Director at the Roundhouse 2001-2008, she was instrumental in the development and delivery of a pioneering creative learning programme which exploited all the opportunities afforded by the venue. At the Roundhouse, she was able to explore a range of methods to engage and involve young people in the use of the performing arts and media Studios and in programme development. The aim was to create an environment rich in possibilities for play and for learning, not just for young people but also for artists. Some of these approaches had been tried and tested when working as Director of Tower Hamlets Summer University 1996-2001, a very successful model of independent learning for teenagers and young adults that has inspired similar ventures across the UK.
As a theatre director she has worked in the UK, India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. In 2002 Elizabeth was awarded a Queen’s Golden Jubilee Award by London Borough of Tower Hamlets for an ” exceptional contribution to youth and culture in the borough.” She is the Chair of the Board of The Arts Catalyst, the arts-science agency, member of the Faculty for The School of Life, Associate Producer for TIMEWONTWAIT and Fellow of the Royal Society of the Arts.
