ABOUT

Make/Shift/Space is a portable artist structure which hosts a programme of live art-making through residencies, workshops and events within temporary public locations. The project was devised in 2016 by artist-duo Hickey+Warner who live and work between Birmingham and London (UK). The roving platform connects the mechanics of everyday space with the process of artistic production, giving visibility to the work that artists do.

Phase One of the project was supported by Arts Council England and mac Birmingham, and explored social practice across outdoor sites in Digbeth, Sparkbrook and Balsall Heath (Birmingham). Commissioned artists Claire Hickey, Emily Warner, Laura Burns and Sarah Taylor Silverwood carried out a series of public realm residencies and community engagement opportunities during May-June 2016. Following this period of activity, the structure has been commissioned for use by organisations such as Longbridge Public Art Project and Gallery37, and events including the Big Draw at Leamington Spa Museum and Art Gallery. 2017 saw Hickey+Warner develop new Make/Shift/Space components as part of Re:Connections in Lee Bank, Birmingham.

Make/Shift/Space provides an interface for exchange between artist, audience and the built environment; brokering conversations about social interaction, public landscapes and artistic activity. It continues to evolve as a platform for artists at work, and a proposition for the alternative use of space.