The idea for this project was inspired by positive shout-outs on my local community online groups. Whenever someone posted a compliment, or shared something they discovered that they loved, I noticed how uplifting it was for people to read. That inspired the idea to host a workshop with the purpose of collecting positive gossip about our neighbourhood. The title and activity come from that old saying “a little bird told me” in reference to hearing rumours or gossip.
About 14 people of all ages dropped in and made little paper birds of their own design, and wrote something they appreciate about an aspect of the neighbourhood for the bird to hold in its feet. People sat in a relaxed environment around big tables with art supplies, tea and sweets and connected with one another while creating. It was a lovely experience getting to know our neighbours better.
Bits of positive gossip ranged from “I love how it feels like a community” to “the staff at the aquatic centre are so kind” to “my neighbours are very good looking”.
A small album of the images is available to look at in the Gordon Neighbourhood House.
Thank you to Gordon Neighbourhood House and ChuChu Chinatown’s Art Supply Thrift Store for their support.
