History
​Formed in 2008 in the dusty streets of Black Rock City, Nevada. Some of us met as teenagers, some of us met in university, some of us were found on the side of the road...
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​Philosophy
​Yes, And!
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Dream
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Mission
The Arts Diaspora is a world-wide collective of artists, pace-setters, dreamers, and do-gooders. This page is dedicated to sharing new works, support artists as they grow, and offer creative inspiration to one and all.
Description
Diaspora [dahy-AS-per-uh] (n): A scattering of people originating from the same source.
About
Throughout our history, artists and entertainers
have served as mirrors for society and teachers of the masses.
We start conversations and frame issues that need addressing.
We share our stories with passing strangers and lend our voices to unsung heroes.
We highlight the cracks in our social surface and represent those slipping through them.
We challenge others - and ourselves, to unlearn old habits and think in new ways.
We envision the future. We introduce new ideas and practices for a better world.
We ask empowering questions. We offer innovative solutions.
Individually, we make an impact. Collectively, we make shift happen.
Makeshift is a global network of creative change-makers.
We believe social transformation starts with "i" :
Intention
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Why, you ask? So do we! Making a meaningful shift requires meaning. Ours is to empower the creative change-makers of the world to activate and co-create a thriving future.
Initiative
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A good idea makes a great impact when someone takes the initiative to lead the way. Makeshift is a pro-active network of catalyst and go-getters. Are you a dreamer looking to do good? Go for it!
Inclusion
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Transformation starts with i, but it takes US to change the world. Makeshift events invite people from of all identities, perspectives, experiences, languages, locations and creative mediums to include themselves.
Integrity
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Yes, we mean it. Yes we're learning. Real change takes real effort, authentic engagement and honest communication. We are not selling perfection, we are sharing our process.
What We Do
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We initiate participatory events and community engagement projects that empower creatives
to share their talents, engage their passion and take action. This includes...
History
Makeshift was founded in 2006 by a small group of arts students in Chicago, Illinois. They recognised the power and responsibility within the arts and entertainment industries to transform the global social tapestry.
In 2008, the collective expanded and took the name the Arts Diaspora, intending to unite the small but widespread nature of the creative arts industries. While the concept of a Diaspora spoke to the intention that artists and performers originate from a core source of creativity, the founding team recognised that that word is intended for those who did not choose to leave their homeland. So, after 10 years projects, initiatives and festivals, we decided to go back to the drawing board.
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In an age of social media and digital entertainment, creatives have the opportunity to spread messages, elevate under-represented demographics, introduce new concepts and social norms, and make a shift that lasts.
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Moving forward, this global creative network takes a name that is also a call-to-action: to make shift happen.
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Currently, all Makeshift events, projects and initiatives are led by volunteers.
If you are interested in getting involved, get in touch!
Connect with us
Connect with other creative change-makers around the world.
Join the Makeshift global creative network!
