Creativity for Cultural Change

When people talk about “innovation,” they often focus on technology. However, the most powerful transformations can occur when creativity is applied to culture. This encompasses the stories we tell, the ways we work, and how communities perceive themselves.

In The Elephant’s Leg II: Creativity in Action, several FASTlab projects illustrate how creative methods can shift cultural patterns, not just generate artefacts. Two projects stand out: Name. Narrate. Navigate (NNN) and The Sustainnovation Challenge.

Name. Narrate. Navigate

NNN embedded a design practitioner inside a youth violence intervention program, working closely with social workers and young people. Instead of treating creativity as therapy or an afterthought, the project employed narrative methods. These included storytelling, participatory design, and visual inquiry. The aim was to help young people articulate their experiences, reframe their identities, and envision different futures.

The result was not just improved engagement; it transformed how practitioners understood and interacted with the young people. Creativity became a bridge between professional expertise and lived experience.

The Sustainnovation Challenge

The Sustainnovation Challenge flipped the conventional model of civic engagement. Instead of adults designing programs for youth, FASTlab co-designed youth-led civic innovation challenges. This approach blended data-driven methods with creative collaboration.

Young people tackled real problems — from sustainability to urban futures. They used co-creation, rapid prototyping, and storytelling to develop actionable ideas. This initiative was not merely a “program”; it served as a cultural intervention. It positioned young people as capable civic actors rather than passive beneficiaries.

Why It Matters

Both projects underscore several key points:

• Creativity is cultural infrastructure, not merely an accessory.

• Narrative and storytelling are powerful tools for transforming how people relate to problems — and to each other.

• Shifting culture often precedes systemic change.

  
  

Why FASTlab Cares

These projects exemplify why FASTlab regards creative practice as a core methodology for social transformation. By embedding artists, designers, and storytellers into complex systems — such as youth services, civic innovation, and community engagement — we unlock new ways of seeing and acting.

The Power of Creativity in Culture

Creativity is not just about making art or designing products. It is about reshaping the very fabric of our society. When we engage with creativity, we invite new perspectives and solutions. This is especially crucial in academic and research settings, where the need for innovative thinking is paramount.

The Role of Storytelling

Storytelling is a fundamental part of human experience. It connects us, informs us, and inspires us. In the context of the projects discussed, storytelling served as a means to empower young individuals. By sharing their narratives, they could influence their communities and drive change.

Bridging the Gap

FASTlab aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry. We believe that collaboration is essential for fostering innovation. By working together, we can turn complex research into real-world solutions. This partnership is vital for securing funding and creating lasting social, environmental, and economic impact.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, the lessons learned from these projects will guide our approach. We must continue to prioritize creativity and storytelling in our work. By doing so, we can inspire future generations to engage with their communities and tackle pressing issues.

The lesson is clear: if you want to change systems, start by changing stories.

📖 Read these case studies in The Elephant’s Leg II: Creativity in Action: Open Access Link