The Margin-to-margin project is ending soon. It has shown that art allows women in remote areas to understand and change their roles as artists, researchers, friends, wives, and mothers. Mastering craftsmanship gives these women power. By gaining technical knowledge, mastering materials, and connecting with their local culture, they develop self-appreciation and the ability to cope with change. The project involved 98 women from 10 countries. Collaborating in workshops has allowed them to share knowledge, skills, personal stories, and support for each other. These workshops have also provided new ways for self-expression. The geographical location influences both their artwork and their lives. The exhibition “Naisia maailman laidalla – Margin to margin” at the Helinä Rautavaara museum introduces clever, resourceful, and solution-oriented women who overcome challenges such as geographical isolation, marginalization, and migration. Everyday struggles include finding employment and dealing with long distances. Social media and networking are helpful in finding opportunities. Some women have consciously chosen to live in remote areas, while others struggle with the decision of staying or leaving. Please visit our exhibition from September 6, 2017, to January 7, 2018, at the Helinä-museo in Espoo.

You can read the paper published of the process at Nordes Who cares? proceedings 2019. Miettinen, S. Sarantou, M. and Kuure, E. (2019) Design for Care in the Peripheries: Arts-based research as an empowering process with communities. Proceedings of the 8th Bi-Annual Nordic Design Research Society Conference – Who Cares? 2-4th of June 2019 Finland