By Keira Grant
In 2024 I took an elective module during my undergraduate degree with the University of Sussex which hosted a session at The Keep with the Mass Observation Archive. This was my first introduction to archives, and it reignited an interest in history and culture I had not experience since my gruelling A-Level history course killed it off. Months later, my mum was doing some research with the Wellcome Collection and asked if I’d like to help her look through some material (with the promise of dinner in London).
These experiences planted the seed of archival work in the back of my mind as I finished off my undergrad degree in filmmaking. When I decided to leave film behind and pursue a master’s degree in creative writing with the University of Brighton, the opportunity arose to undertake a placement as an artist in residence. Contacting Mass Observation was the best decision I could have made, and I am incredibly grateful to have been accepted onto the placement.
The agreement of my placement included a mutual benefit system: I was expected to use the residency as a source of inspiration in order to produce a piece of creative work, and in return would help with any work required of me. I was given the opportunity to make a start on a hefty project for the archive. Whilst exploring the materials for my own creative inspiration, I was simultaneously looking for and making note of any particularly diverse voices or situations that arose within the archive. This was such an interesting project! I loved getting caught up in reading through the collections, and this work gave me a sense of direction and purpose whilst I was being creatively inspired.
I was also privileged to have attended and participated in a number of incredible events hosted by MO, and even got to lead part of a workshop on my final day. I’ve rarely had the opportunity to build skills like teaching and leading, although it has been something I’ve wanted to try for a long time, and as nervous as I was I’m proud of myself for doing it, and grateful to have been given the chance.
This placement has graced me with so many wonderful opportunities, including the chance for me to take on a new placement in a different archive held at The Keep. They clearly can’t get rid of me! I am so thankful that my interest in history has been rekindled, and I am going to be looking into a career in the culture and heritage sector in the hopes I can bring some creativity into the industry. This placement has taught me that the convergence of these sectors has immense value, and I hope to be a part of unlocking it.
Thank you to everyone who welcomed me into their space and their work – I have never met a more supportive and inclusive team. I will miss you all greatly!