Author Identifier (ORCID)
Non-Traditional Research Output
Curated Exhibition or Event
Document Type
Non-Traditional Research Output
Date of Publication
2021
Evidence of First Exhibition/Presentation
Opening: 18 March 2021 CREAtec floor talk: 24th March 2021 12.30pm - 1.30pm Documentary broadcast: Wednesday 17th and 24th March on ABC PLUS
Location of the Work
ECU Galleries
Research Statement
Research Background
During the making of ABC documentary series Laura’s Choice (2021), one interviewee remarked that 'changing society begins with conversations around the kitchen table.' To explore this idea further, I worked with co-director of the documentary, Sam Lara, to develop a set of materials for an exhibition entitled, Conversations around the Kitchen Table. The purpose was to create a safe space for community engagement and dialogue associated with death and dying. The exhibition comprised large photographs, artifacts, text quotes and a video of interviews with Laura and inine previously unseen audio-visual works exploring a diverse range of views on death and dying, including a rabbi, an Islamic leader, an indigenous elder, Dr Philip Nitschke, a lawyer and two doctors. Vistors were able to view the materials and then join others around the Kitchen Table using prompt cards to engage in conversations about end of life choices.
Research Contribution
Community attitudes to assisted dying and end of life choice are underexplored in academic research, therefore the exhibition offered an innovative and safe approach to this issue. Visitors were able to view the range of stimulus materials and in conversation around a kitchen table using the prompt cards. A survey offered an alternative way for visitors to express their views and contribute to the conversation. The survey findings are being analysed for a SAH research project on attitudes to death and related journal articles.
Research Significance
The exhibition launch attracted a large audience and an estimated 200 visitors over the 14 days, with several visitors returning over multiple days. 28 surveys were completed which are being reviewed using content and thematic analysis for future publication. Feedback from visitors (relayed verbally and via the survey) was overwhelmingly positive and echoed the gratitude on social media for a safe space to have these conversations.
Publication Title
Spectrum Project Space
Publisher
Edith Cowan University
School
School of Arts and Humanities
RAS ID
65867
Event Title
Conversations around the kitchen table
Event Dates
March 21-25, 2021
Event Venue
Spectrum Project Space
Duration
14 days
Included in
Other Legal Studies Commons, Other Psychology Commons, Personality and Social Contexts Commons
Comments
Henkel, C., & Lara, S. Conversations around the kitchen table. Spectrum Project Space. 11 Mar.- 25 Mar. 2021. ECU Galleries. Edith Cowan University.