Christian Aid is hoping to transform the broken into the beautiful with its new craftivism campaign. Worshipping communities and individuals are invited to join this new campaign urging MPs to repair the harm caused by global debt.
A giant restoration pot, made up of prayers, messages, and artwork from across the UK will be constructed. The pot is inspired by ‘kintsugi’, the Japanese art of repairing pottery with gold to fill in the cracks – taking what is broken and making it more beautiful by accentuating and highlighting the broken spaces.
The finished piece will be 6ft tall and 5ft wide, made of plywood and covered with gold-coloured fabric, to which contributions will be attached. Once complete, the installation will be displayed in the Houses of Parliament and will tour the country to raise awareness of Christian Aid’s Restore debt campaign. The campaign urges the UK Government to make polluters pay for the damage they cause and to introduce debt justice laws requiring private lenders to cancel or renegotiate debts.
Anyone can contribute by writing or drawing prayers and messages of solidarity for those impacted by climate and debt crises, particularly in the global south where climate change and problems with debt are colliding to trap people further into poverty.
The messages can be created in worshipping communities, youth and craft groups, or in small gatherings with friends. Christian Aid hopes these contributions can be used to start a conversation with local MPs or other elected representatives.
Luke Harman, Christian Aid’s Campaigns and Activism Manager, said: “Throughout history, art and creativity have been powerful tools for achieving social change. Now, they are being channelled into something that decision makers can’t ignore. Our pot will be used to show the UK Government the breadth, depth and strength of feeling amongst churches and Christians across the UK who are calling for an end to poverty and want action from those in power.”
To find out more, please visit the Christian Aid website and search Restore Craftivism Guide.
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