I had the pleasure to attend a workshop by Philippa Berry-Smith, held for the purpose of research for her Master’s thesis on showing family history information through visual design.
Some interesting perspectives with regard to how family is defined led to a fun and creative workshop, intended to develop symbols that could be used rather than the conventional family tree as we know it.
A variety of media was used by the attendees on white cartridge paper varying from pencils, pens, and paint, with the option to use collage. Visuals were quite different from person to person, showing unique viewpoints.
I used acrylics on black paper to represent three of my family members (all deceased), myself, and the connection between us. For me this resulted in a whole new way of looking at family portraits – I felt what I painted represented the spirit of each and our connection within the universe more than anything and I can see myself doing more of these!
Another element to the workshop included a presentation of a digital Kin Code Symbol creator designed by Philippa we were invited to participate in. After entering my data, this was the symbol that emerged (Background images e.g. photographs or art were optional so I used one previously used in one of my earlier posts on identity). You can follow Philippa’s The Kin Code on Instagram @thekincode.
Personally, I view family as those who are blood relatives, spouses, and children, including any children in blended families. How do you define family?
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