While we find ourselves in isolation, removed from our normal everyday lives, we've been taking this space to enjoy things we otherwise wouldn't have the time for, both for research and pleasure. Here are some recommendations from the people that make up our ADF team, something for everyone. Enjoy! 

Listen 

Architecture Masters at Home is a podcast from the London Festival of Architecture. I really enjoyed the conversation. It shows good practice in engaging partners in programming and it gives some interesting perspectives about the future of work at home for architects and designers. Laura, Venice Fellowships Programme Manager  

When I need a moment of inspiration, or just positivity and ideas, the Do Lectures is always a brilliant one to turn too. I recommend signing up to their weekly newsletter, it always has some great features. Katia, Global Programme Manager for Crafting Futures

For some time away from the screen - whether phone or laptop I have been listening to a lot of music. Roulette recently shared a recording of Arthur Russell playing live at their venue in 1985, the perfect plodding aural exploration to lie back, let your eyes rest and yourself drift. Lucy, Marketing Manager

Look 

Each evening, Sight Unseen has begun hosting daily design talks and virtual studio tours via Instagram live. Airing at 6pm GMT, I'm enjoying finishing my working day and getting a final bit of inspiration from design demonstrations and home studio tours featuring people ranging from Altlanta based figurative painter Kristen Giorgi to London based set and interior designer Robert Story. Hannah, Programme Manager 

I was really impressed by how immersive this online exhibition dedicated to artist Frida Kahlo is. This selection put together by Google Arts and Culture, offers a glimpse into Frida’s life as well as art, showcasing pieces from her fashion collection and allowing you to walk around her studio in the Blue House, Mexico City. Elena, Programme Coordinator

While many of us scratch around in the dark trying to keep alight our connections and creativity through online and digital platforms, designers have been exploring how to trigger specific sensory experiences through various technologies and digital methods for some time. ASMR (Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response) is the focus of this ArkDes show,Weird Sensation Feels Good . For those unfamiliar with the term ASMR, it refers to “a physical sensation: euphoria or deep calm, sometimes a tingling in the body”. I first came across this concept at the Venice Architecture Biennale, which is all about immersive exhibits so it will be really interesting to experience this virtual launch. Gwen, Programme Manager for Architecture

Cooper Hewitt, one of my favourite design collections, opens their doors virtually to share some of their treasures online. You can create an online account and save your search and favourite objects. There are a number of tools to use in the 'explore the collection' section, from selecting objects by country of origin, exhibitions or highlights. It's fascinating to see, for instance, that the museum holds more objects connected to France than the United States itself! My favourite section is the videos, with lots of amazing content to explore. Joao, Senior Programme Manager

Read

I’m really enjoying re-visiting Be Like Teflon by Jasleen Kaur. From the book design by Åbäke to the title and the beautiful conversations about food between Jasleen and her friends and family, it feels familiar and reminds me of how resilient we can be. The title comes from an aunty’s advice: 'be like teflon, be like teflon, don’t let anything stick’. Parvinder, Programme Manager for Design

I've found (the brilliant) Brittany Howard's Instagram post, written by Emma Zeck, a helpful reminder to give myself permission to take this time to pause, reflect and play.  Kate, Marketing Manager

Do 

As we find ourselves truly in need of global social innovation, it is really exciting that the UN has launched their first-ever open brief to creatives around the world to help spread the public health messages in ways which will be effective, accessible and shareable in the face of COVID-19. Sevra, Director for Architecture Design Fashion  

At first, I was sceptical of more noise, but the Facebook group "I’m stuck at home but still want to have fun", is all about meaningful connection and promotes positive mental health whilst being isolated. I’ve attended an online life drawing class, 80’s yoga, an art therapy session and have had some good laughs. Güte, Programme Coordinator

 

Our team across British Council Arts has also pulled together the latest advice, funding, resources, and tips for staying creative during the Covid-19 crisis. Find this webpage here.

You can read Britsh Council Arts response to Covid-19 here.