Journeying to new futures!

I’m one of those people who really enjoy long train journeys. My favourite kind are the ones that are just long enough for you to go to sleep, but still be travelling when you wake up.

The journey from Birmingham to Liverpool is just long enough to fit a daydream and a nap or two with time to appreciate the passing landscape besides. As I looked out of the window, anticipating the weekend ahead, sometimes I’d find myself wondering how much change the future would bring, how different the landscape would look in 20, 50 or 100 years time. What industries would return, what new cities will be born?

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An Interview with Nikky Norton Shafau

In the run up to Future|Journeys on 21st May, we thought we’d do some quick takes with the various artists and hackers who will be joining the event. Nikki Norton Shafau is a Manchester based artist who will be leading the Storybook workshop. Much of her work is focussed on using the transformative power of narrative to change our perceptions and destinies and we wanted to find out a little bit more about what makes her tick…

 

AfroFutures_UK: It’s so great to talk with you and I’m especially happy you’re going to be leading a workshop and a guest panellist on the 21st. Do you mind introducing yourself in your own words?

Nikky Norton Shafau: My name is Nikky. I am a little bit strange… I want to become a Storybook.

AF: What do you think defines your art?

NNS: I like exploring self, the unknown, reality and fantasy. I like being silly and serious. I am interested in african oral storytelling traditions, playing with the boundaries between ‘audience’ and artist and finding my own voice; sense of belonging.