Reflecting on Green Tease – Reimagining Retrofit – October 7th
Despite the rain and stormy weather that swept through Glasgow on October 7th, the Green Tease event, “Reimagining Retrofit – Towards a Just Transition for Our Homes and Neighbourhoods,” drew an amazing and resilient crowd. At Civic House, we were honoured to host this event, which explored the crucial intersection of housing struggles and climate breakdown, uniting artists, activists, architects, and sustainability practitioners in the pursuit of a sustainable future.
Image by Creative Carbon Scotland
The day was marked by engaging discussions, exhibitions, and workshops, as we came together to envision how our neighbourhoods can thrive amidst the challenges of a changing climate. Co-created by Creative Carbon Scotland and Scott McAulay from the Anthropocene Architecture School, the event sparked deep conversations about what it means to ‘retrofit,’ from individual homes to entire communities, prompting us to reflect on our connections to home and place.
Beginning the day we delved into the idea of retrofitting beyond individual homes. Collaborating with ACAN Scotland, BE Changemakers, Imagine If CIC, and the Architecture Fringe, we explored the profound implications of retrofitting on a broader scale. These discussions paved the way for imagining a future where our communities are environmentally and socially sustainable.
The event offered a chance to watch the film, “Dampbusters” by Winnie Herbstein which journeyed through the past, present, and future of community organising in Glasgow, showcasing the resilience and determination of the city’s residents. Attendees also had the opportunity to explore exhibition materials from Imagine If CIC and the Wyndford exhibition, a collaborative effort between students from the Glasgow School of Art and the residents of Wyndford.
Photo by Creative Carbon Scotland
Artist Martha Orbach led a workshop that encouraged attendees to explore how creativity can help us collectively envision alternative housing solutions amidst the climate crisis. Through experimental drawing, diagrams, and willow-making, we delved into the possibilities that art provides for reflection and reimagining.
Green Tease was an inspiring and thought-provoking event that reinforced the notion that art and culture can play a pivotal role in reshaping our housing future for the better. We look forward to future events that continue to inspire positive change and sustainable living.