During the process of the action research project I was interested in exploring the idea of an ethical workshop environment and what does that look like?
Due to challenges and delays from the move from Camberwell to Shepards bush our space is far from a complete state, but progress has been made. After conducting research from other technicians across UAL a few recurring themes have stuck out to me. One being that the space is never really finished and constantly evolving. This is reflective of students needs, desires, abilities etc. but also in terms of equipment in the space – especially for us in digital fabrication as tools and processes are constantly updating and changing, similar to the cohort of students who access them.
As we were required to open in an unfinished state we have persistent issues, for example there is still no extraction in the space so processes like laser cutting can’t be used by students and this goes back to the issue echoed by other technicians during my research that often the design of spaces at UAL are unfit for purpose at the architectural level. Because of this our space has been limited to processes that don’t require extraction, for example 3D printing, and 3d Scanning, pen plotting and vinyl cutting. What I’ve found is by limited the processes the experimentation of the tools we can provide has been more creative which is an interesting and positive development.
In terms of creating an ‘ethical’ space, as the space is evolving this is an ongoing discussion. Practical implementations like things like having appropriate sound proofing for students who are sensitive noise, having height adjustable desks, keeping walkways clear etc. But also how can we make a safe and comfortable environment for students who perhaps feel intimidated or nervous to enter? Again, these are ongoing discussions and more research can be done perhaps from the student voice to hear their opinions and concerns.
After visiting the workshop spaces at Chelsea and Camberwell we had discussions about the table in the centre of the room. This allows students to assemble, modify and finish their models to emphasis that the workshops are making spaces and not services provided to students. This is something we have implemented at Lime Grove and it’s been in used by students in the same way, helping with collaboration and creativity within the space.
