Online Reading Group #1: Normality is an Invention

Online Reading Group

Our reading group, designed by producer Robyn Haddon, returns for Spring/Summer 2024 with a series of readings exploring the research behind our exhibition programme. 

We begin with two online sessions based on texts suggested by artist Freya Dooley. The chosen texts have been an integral part of her research for solo exhibition False Note. There will also be a third lunchtime session in-person at Site Gallery. You are welcome to attend any number of these sessions, participation in all is not required. Feel free to join as many or as few as you like.

The readings will be sent to you after you book your place.

Online Reading Group #1: Normality is an Invention

For this session we look at Chapter 6 from Robert Chapman’s Empire of Normality, a history of how the invention of the ‘normal’ mind goes hand-in-hand with the rise of capitalism. In this chapter, Chapman gives an overview of Fordism in the 1950s in the USA. Alongside this, we will look at an article reflecting on Gen Z and how they engage with workplace practices, particularly the etiquette of job interviews. 

Online Reading Group #2: Strategies for being yourself / losing yourself at work

Reading Group #3: Relaxed in-person session

If you can’t attend any of the sessions but are interested in accessing the readings, please email Robyn at robyn.haddon@sitegallery.org to request them or call Site Gallery reception on 0114 2812077. More sessions to be announced throughout the summer.