This talk will be an exploration of the idea that inclusion in organisations is not only an emotional or social experience, but also a material one. Our sense of belonging is shaped not just by people, but by the everyday objects, spaces and atmospheres that surround us as we work and create. Jess Miles's research pays close attention to the quiet yet vibrant agency of things, from plants and cables to filing cabinets and coffee mugs, and the roles they play in organisational life.

Drawing on emerging insights from her PhD research at the University of Bristol, including work at the Pervasive Media Studio, Jess shares stories of encounters between people and objects that challenge conventional understandings of belonging as purely psychological or cultural. The talk invites us to consider what new possibilities might become possible when we start recognising inclusion as something co‑produced by humans and everyday things.

Join us online on YouTube Live, or in the building on Friday 4th December at 13:00 for the talk and to take part in the Q&A discussion afterwards. 

Want to support what we do at Watershed? Please consider donating, so we can bring you more talks like this.

The Pervasive Media Studio is a partnership between the Watershed, University of the West of England and University of Bristol. The lunchtime talks are partly supported by MyWorld, a project led by the University of Bristol to support creative industries in the region. Watershed is supported by Arts Council England.

Address:

Watershed, 1 Canon's Rd, Bristol BS1 5TX

Directions:

The Lunchtime talks take place in the Pervasive Media Studio Event Space. To access the Studio, please go to the Main Watershed Box Office entrance and go upstairs to the Café Bar. Walk across the cafe bar, turn right and walk towards the double doors. Go through into the corridor and walk all the way down until you reach the Studio. A member of staff will sign you in, and check your ticket, if you have booked.

The Studio is wheelchair accessible, and the events space has a hearing loop. The last talk of every month is BSL interpreted. 

For more information on accessing the studio take a look here.

*Please note this is a hybrid event and will be live streamed so please be aware you will be in the live broadcast and recording when watching in the Studio.