Caring Craftivists

Domestic Dusters & We Care
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Can craft tell the untold stories of carers?  Welcome to Caring Craftivists the podcast where craftivism and caring intertwine to create powerful stories of resilience, advocacy, and hope. Hosted by Vanessa, a researcher and lecturer at the University of Brighton, and Katy, an unpaid carer and founder of the We Care Campaign, this podcast stitches together carers' experiences who use craft as a tool for change. In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. Each episode uncovers the stories behind the stitches, introducing you to carers who have transformed simple dusters into works of activism, amplifying their voices and making their invisible labour visible. From powerful messages displayed in the Senedd to personal tales of strength and struggle, we explore how creativity can spark conversations, challenge perceptions, and inspire

Episodes

  1. 07/06/2025

    Textile art and unpaid care, with Cas Holmes

    In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. In this episode of Caring Craftivists, we welcome Cas Holmes, an accomplished artist and author, who shares her unique perspective on the intersection of art and caring. We delve into the creative process behind her latest work, which repurposes an old duster, symbolising resilience and the intricate nature of care. Cas discusses how her artistic practice has evolved in tandem with her role as an unpaid carer for her partner, Derek, a stroke survivor. Through her stitching, she explores themes of memory, legacy, and the often-unseen emotional labour of carers. We also reflect on the importance of community and the quiet rebellion inherent in craftivism, highlighting how art can serve as a powerful voice for those navigating the complexities of care. Cas's insights reveal the profound connections between domesticity, identity, and the creative spirit. To view Cas’s duster go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/ To learn more about Cas and her work, visit her website here: https://casholmes.uk For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk

    30 min

  2. 07/05/2025

    Caring for loved ones, with unpaid carer Yvonne

    In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. In this episode of Caring Craftivists, we sit down with Yvonne, a dedicated carer for her partner Marie, who has secondary progressive MS. Yvonne shares her journey, detailing the profound impact that caring has had on her life over the past 20 years. We explore the challenges of navigating daily life while managing care responsibilities, including the struggle to carve out personal space amidst constant demands. Yvonne reflects on the emotional weight of her role, the complexities of relationships with paid carers, and the importance of finding moments of respite. Through the lens of a unique duster she crafted for the We Care Campaign, Yvonne articulates the hidden burdens of unpaid carers and the significance of visibility in our experiences. We discuss the power of creativity as a form of expression and connection, and how participating in the campaign has fostered a sense of solidarity among carers. To view Yvonne’s duster go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/ For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk

    20 min

  3. 06/30/2025

    Caring for Mother, with unpaid carer Brian

    In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. In this episode of Caring Craftivists we welcome Brian, an unpaid carer from Wales, who shares his deeply personal journey of caring for his mother until her passing. Brian reflects on the challenges he faced, including navigating the complexities of the healthcare system and the emotional toll of witnessing his mother's decline. We delve into the nuances of unpaid care, discussing the invisible labour that carers undertake, and how societal expectations can make this role even more challenging. Brian also shares his experience embroidering his duster in Welsh. Join us as we explore the intersection of care, activism, and the importance of storytelling in bringing these vital issues to light. Brian's insights remind us that while the journey of caring can be incredibly taxing, it is also filled with love and profound connections. To view Brian’s duster go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/ For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk Episode References: Oxfam https://www.oxfam.org

    23 min

  4. 06/30/2025

    Stitching the invisibility of unpaid care, with Emily Parkyn

    In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. In this heartfelt episode of "Caring Craftivists" we sit down with Emily, a devoted mother and unpaid carer, to explore the intricate journey of caring for a family member with a chronic illness. Emily shares her poignant story of supporting her daughter, Jenna, who battles chronic fatigue syndrome, and the profound realisation of her role as a carer. Through candid reflections, Emily discusses the challenges of balancing personal identity with caring, the isolation that often accompanies unpaid care, and the societal undervaluation of such vital roles. Her narrative is intertwined with her passion for textiles and craftivism, where she finds solace and empowerment in stitching, transforming everyday objects into powerful symbols of Care and activism. This episode delves into the themes of invisibility, community, and the quiet strength found in creative expression, offering a moving perspective on the value of care and the importance of recognising and supporting unpaid carers. Tune in to be inspired by Emily’s resilience and to gain insight into the transformative power of creativity in the face of adversity. For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/ For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk To view Emily’s duster go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/

    30 min

  5. 06/30/2025

    Kinship caring and stitching with Bobbie-Jo Haarhoff

    In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. In this episode of Caring Craftivists, we have the pleasure of speaking with Bobbie-Jo Haarhoff, an unpaid carer and passionate advocate for the rights of kinship carers. Bobbie-Jo shares her journey as a carer for her daughter and nephew, reflecting on her two decades of experience in this vital role. We delve into the Domestic Dusters Project, where unpaid carers have expressed their thoughts and feelings through embroidery on dusters. Bobbie-Jo discusses the significance of this project and how it aims to amplify the voices of those often overlooked in society. We explore the intersection of craft and activism, or 'craftivism', and how Bobbie-Jo's artistic background informs her approach to advocacy. She reflects on the importance of community, connection, and the intrinsic value that unpaid carers bring to the health and social care sector. To learn more about Bobbie-Jo and her incredible work, you can connect with her organisation on social media and the website https://www.voices.wales/ More information on Kinship Caring here: https://kinship.org.uk/ For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/ For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk To view Bobbie-Jo’s duster go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/

    43 min

  6. 06/23/2025

    Activist stitching, with Ceri Higgins

    In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. In this episode of Caring Craftivists, we are joined by Ceri, an unpaid carer from Wales, who shares her inspiring journey of embroidering a duster for the We Care campaign. With nearly 30 years of caring experience, Ceri reflects on her role in supporting family members with cognitive issues and disabilities. We delve into the creative process behind her duster, which became a canvas for her emotions and activism. Ceri discusses the significance of the words and images she chose, revealing how this artistic expression served as a powerful outlet for her experiences as a carer. Throughout the conversation, Ceri's passion for activism shines through as she emphasises the importance of lived experiences in shaping policy. She highlights the need for policymakers to remember the realities faced by unpaid carers, urging them not to overlook their struggles. As we explore the impact of creativity on Ceri's perspective, she shares how her relationship with art has evolved, allowing her to channel her experiences into meaningful activism. The duster, a seemingly simple object, becomes a symbol of resilience and empowerment, challenging the traditional narratives surrounding caring roles. Join us as we celebrate Ceri's journey, her unwavering spirit, and the profound connection between creativity and care. To view Ceri’s duster go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/ For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/ For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk

    24 min

  7. 06/23/2025

    Unpaid carers need better support, with Laura Collins

    In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. In this episode of Caring Craftivists, we have the pleasure of speaking to Laura Collins, an unpaid carer from Belfast, who shares her journey of caring for her adult children and her involvement in this unique campaign. Alongside Katy, founder of We Care, and Vanessa, founder of Domestic Dusters, Laura discusses the powerful narratives stitched into dusters, symbolising the often invisible yet vital role of carers in society. Laura introduces us to her creations, including the "Signposting Merry Go Round," which highlights the frustrating cycle of referrals and the need for effective care navigation. She also shares the poignant "Counted On, Not Counted In," reflecting on the unrecognised contributions of carers. Through these artworks, Laura advocates for systemic change, emphasising the importance of recognising and supporting carers at every stage of their journey. Discover how the Domestic Dusters project has provided a creative outlet and a sense of community for carers, enabling them to voice their experiences and challenges. Laura's passion for advocacy shines through as she calls for legislative action to support carers and ensure their voices are heard. This episode is a powerful testament to the dedication of carers, offering a fresh perspective on how art and activism can intersect to drive meaningful change. Tune in to be inspired by more stories of Caring Craftivists. To view Laura’s dusters go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/ For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/ For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk

    25 min

  8. 06/23/2025

    The politics of unpaid care, with Sarah Rees, Katy Styles, and Vanessa Marr

    In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. In this episode of Caring Craftivists, we embark on a collaborative journey with Sarah Rees, the head of Oxfam Cymru, to explore the transformative power of craftivism in amplifying the voices of unpaid carers. Vanessa and Katy delve into the Caring Craftivists Project, where participants across Wales embroidered their thoughts onto domestic yellow dusters, turning everyday objects into poignant statements about invisible labour and care. We discuss the deep connections between creativity and advocacy, and how the project not only provided a platform for storytelling but also fostered community engagement and policy discussions. Sarah shares her insights on the importance of recognising the vital role of carers in society, and how the project has sparked meaningful conversations within the Welsh Parliament. Join us as we reflect on the impact of this innovative initiative, the emotional journeys of the participants, and the potential for future projects that blend creativity with advocacy. This episode is a testament to the power of crafting as a tool for change and the importance of making the voices of unpaid carers heard. Episode references: Oxfam Cymru https://www.oxfam.org.uk/cymru Every Woman Festival https://www.everywomanfest.com To see the project in the Senedd you can watch this video: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/ For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk

    31 min

  9. 06/16/2025

    Find yourself through stitching, with unpaid carer Clare

    In this episode of Caring Craftivists, Vanessa Marr and Katy Styles delve into the transformative power of craftivism through the lens of Claire, an unpaid carer for her autistic children. Clare shares her personal journey of embracing her identity as a carer, sparked by her involvement in the Caring Craftivists Project. We explore the intricate meanings behind Clare's duster, adorned with heartfelt messages that reflect both the struggles and the connections inherent in caring. Clare discusses how the act of stitching became a meditative process, allowing her to articulate her feelings and experiences in a tangible form. As we navigate the conversation, Clare reveals how participating in this project has reignited her sense of self-worth and empowered her to advocate for herself and others in similar situations. The discussion touches on the importance of visibility for unpaid carers and the need for society to recognise the invaluable contributions they make. Join us as we celebrate the intersection of creativity and care and discover how crafting can serve as a powerful tool for change and connection. To view Clare’s duster go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/ For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/ For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk

    31 min

  10. 06/16/2025

    The power of an embroidered duster, with Domestic Dusters founder Vanessa Marr

    In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. In this episode of Caring Craftivists, we dive into the fascinating intersection of care and creativity with Vanessa Marr, Principal Lecturer at the University of Brighton and founder of the Domestic Dusters Project, alongside Katy Styles, an unpaid carer and founder of the We Care Campaign. Join us as we explore the origins of the Caring Craftivist project, where the humble yellow duster becomes a powerful medium for storytelling and empowerment. Vanessa shares her journey from academic research into domesticity and fairy tales to the transformative power of craftivism, revealing how stitching can amplify the voices of unpaid carers. We discuss the significance of the red thread, the symbolism of the duster, and how this project has fostered community connections while addressing the challenges faced by carers. The conversation also touches on the political implications of their work, including their recent experiences advocating for carers at the Senedd in Wales. To view the dusters go here: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/partnerships/ To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com/ To find out more about Vanessa’s academic research, visit: https://research.brighton.ac.uk/en/persons/vanessa-marr For inquiries, please email us at: V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or wearecarers@gmail.com For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk Episode references: ‘Women’s Work; The First 20,000 Years’ Elizabeth Wayland Barber https://www.waterstones.com/book/womens-work/elizabeth-wayland-barber/9781324076025 ‘The Subversive Stitch’ Rozsika Parker https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-subversive- stitch/rozsika-parker/9781350132290 ‘Textiles: The Whole Story: Uses. Meanings. Significance’ Beverly Gordon https://www.waterstones.com/book/textiles-the-whole-story/beverly-gordon/9780500291139 ‘Handmaid's Tale’ by Margaret Atwood https://www.waterstones.com/book/the-handmaids- tale/margaret-atwood/9780099740919

    30 min

  11. 06/08/2025

    Displaying dusters at the Senedd: A community partnership, with Katy Styles and Vanessa Marr

    In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. In this episode of Caring Craftivists, we dive into the vibrant world of craftivism with hosts Vanessa Marr and Katy Styles, who share their journey of intertwining creativity and care through the Caring Craftivist campaign. Vanessa and Katy reflect on their collaborative project, where they empowered carers to express their stories through the art of embroidery on dusters. They discuss the significance of visibility and community in the lives of unpaid carers and how their shared experiences led to a powerful display at the Senedd, the Welsh Parliament. Join us as they explore the challenges and triumphs of their respective journeys, the importance of amplifying carers' voices, and how craftivism serves as a unique form of activism.  This episode is a celebration of creativity, connection, and the invisible labour that often goes unnoticed in society. To view Katy’s duster go to: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk/craftivism/ and https://domesticdustersproject.com/collaborations To hear Vanessa and Katy reflect on their work with the University of Brighton you can watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vP7S_oVbI4A and listen to this podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4xtQ199RRnW8q3OM3TK0Co For inquiries, please email us at:  V.Marr@brighton.ac.uk or     wearecarers@gmail.com  To discover the Domestic Dusters Project, check out: https://domesticdusters.wordpress.com For more information on the We Care Campaign, visit us at: https://wecarecampaign.org.uk

    28 min
  • 11 Episodes

About

Can craft tell the untold stories of carers?  Welcome to Caring Craftivists the podcast where craftivism and caring intertwine to create powerful stories of resilience, advocacy, and hope. Hosted by Vanessa, a researcher and lecturer at the University of Brighton, and Katy, an unpaid carer and founder of the We Care Campaign, this podcast stitches together carers' experiences who use craft as a tool for change. In 2023, we invited unpaid carers from across Wales to embroider their experiences of caring onto a yellow duster. These dusters were presented to MPs at the Welsh Parliament, calling for improved rights. Caring Craftivists is our shared story. Each episode uncovers the stories behind the stitches, introducing you to carers who have transformed simple dusters into works of activism, amplifying their voices and making their invisible labour visible. From powerful messages displayed in the Senedd to personal tales of strength and struggle, we explore how creativity can spark conversations, challenge perceptions, and inspire

Information

  • Creator
    Domestic Dusters & We Care
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Domestic Dusters & We Care
  • Show Website
    Caring Craftivists