Craft, a new initiative by OCAD University, is an online marketplace where artists and designers can sell their work while developing skills to thrive in a just economy. Craft builds on the legacy of OCADU’s leading artists and creative entrepreneurs while pioneering a new model of collaborative entrepreneurship.
As a platform cooperative, Craft is modelled as an equitable and democratic business collective that empowers, instead of exploits, creatives. Through the platform, Craft members will earn income while also accessing bespoke creative entrepreneurship training designed to help them build the economic and professional resilience and collective strength needed to flourish, even in the face of ongoing uncertainty. [source: FSC]
Phase 2, from January to March 2022, OCAD engaged 15 students in a 5-module co-design session seeking to determine how a platform like CRAFT might meet early-career artists’ needs. Co-facilitating each session, I was also lead designer for the ownership session. Sessions 4 engaged participants in conversation about key differences between cooperatives, non-profits and corporations, and allowed them to self-organize and voice interest / commitment / curiosity regarding the roles required in the foundation of an incubated co-operative.
In Phase 3, through April 2023, OCAD is seeking to determine whether and how it will incubate Craft over the course of the next years (incorporation / launch phase) and the timeline to autonomy of the entity. Part of the collective study will yield a plan for an efficient and future-proofed governance processes (including new member training and on-boarding tools) & operations that formalise breakeven horizon.
All interviews and co-design sessions were held remotely due to COVID restrictions.
12/2021 - 04/2023
Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD)
Montréal | Québec (remotely)