The Maker Library Network is a British Council Connect ZA initiative designed to foster creativity and collaboration between makers and designers across both countries through creating a reading, showcasing and making space. Through this unique network, makers and designers can share resources, swap skills, take part in mentoring sessions and exchange ideas. The programme and workshops are structured in a way that allows the opportunity to connect with local and UK based Maker Librarians (curators) and mentors.
The 'design week' also marks the launch of the first mobile version of the Maker Library in South Africa, which will be on the move throughout Cape Town during the event period featuring exciting maker workshops at the following venues:
• Khayelitsha Train Station Courtyard - Friday, 27 February
• Neighbourgoods Market, Old Biscuit Mill - Saturday, 28 February
Mel Spencer, Project Manager of the Maker Library Network, says, "The first mobile Maker Library, a caravan fitted by GRAS Studios, participated in London Design Week 2014 and it was an instant success - giving the librarians a chance to extend interaction outside of a fixed location. There is also the rewarding opportunity to engage with the public - who will have the chance to experiment creatively with makers and designers on hand to assist."
The exhibition space will feature work produced by Maker Librarians including local designers and Maker Library curators Heath Nash and Thingking, pieces by makers that have inspired them and the books they feel have had a lasting impact on their practice as designers - exploring the themes: Make, Show, Read.
The results of some exciting collaborations that have taken place between Maker Libraries across the UK and SA will also be on display. The showcase will be accompanied by a full programme of public workshops, hosted by Maker Librarians who have travelled from all over South Africa and the UK to join the event. These will include DIY wearable tech, screen-printing stencils and making large-scale inflatables; and even toy making (full programme details will be published on the website).
Daniel Charny, Creative Director of the MLN says, "We are bringing together for the first time a showcase of content developed by and between the Maker Libraries. It includes individual and collaborative projects from across the network, and is a chance for people who have been Skyping, emailing, prototyping, filming, phoning and 'Hanging out' online to meet in person and make in the same physical space."
