Commonly asked questions about taking part in the project
How much time will it take?
The project has several stages and is designed to take mothers and birthing parents through a process of reflection, collaboration and sharing. You are not obliged to take part in all parts of the project but we find that many participants choose to do so in order to experience the maximum benefit from the project which is free at all stages.
Who can take part?
Anyone who has tried breastfeeding and is the current project area can take part in the writing workshops and interviews. The photographic portraits are only for currently breastfeeding parents as these will be used in the context of widening representation of breastfeeding.
How do I start?
Once you have filled out the form to take part, we will also ask you to read the information sheet, which we need for the academic evaluation to be validated. This makes you officially on the project.
When you have confirmed that you have read the information sheet, we will contact you to set up a time for a 1 to 1 interview with the lead artist.
What is the interview for?
The interview is to get to know you and understand better any challenges you have faced with infant feeding.
We use the interview as source audio and video for both a 5 minute VLOG and a longer podcast episode. Not all interviews are used for both purposes but as this is our first chance to talk, we find it’s best to capture your thoughts at this stage.
Do I need to prepare for the interview?
The interview is via Zoom and so we ask that you use a microphone and headphones and schedule a time when you can talk freely without interruption for approximately one hour.
If you do not have access to WIFI, a smartphone or computer please let us know so that we can arrange this.
If you require a translator to be present, please let us know so that we can arrange this.
What will happen during the photographic portrait session?
You will be invited to feed your baby in a private temporary photographic studio during a 1.5 hour session with the artist. We ask that you attend the session with only your child, to avoid distraction and to keep the atmosphere quietly intimate. The session is 1 to 1 with the lead artist but venue partners may be nearby to help. The studio will be quite dark as we find this helps babies and mothers feel comfortable. The session is designed to be a quiet, relaxing experience.
What should I wear for my portrait?
We encourage mothers to express themselves, their culture and their personality in their dress but foundation makeup is discouraged as this often can appear unnatural under the lighting, which is very soft and flattering.
How will my portrait be used?
Participation in the portrait will involve signing a Model Release contract allowing the artist to exhibit your portrait and/or animate your portrait session into a short moving image piece.
Do I get to keep my photograph?
All photographic portraits used in the project are given to participating parents in the form of a 12” x 16” print. Prints will be signed by the artist.
Will my photographic portrait show skin?
This decision is yours and won’t be dictated by the artist taking the photographic portrait. You are also welcome to ask for retouch of your images for the purpose of modesty if you are not comfortable with them.
What if I don’t like my photograph?
The artist will suggest a set of images to use for the project. One of these will be printed for exhibition. The set will be used for the animation. You will be given the option to veto all these images.
How much control do I have?
All aspects of the project require separate consent. You will be asked for your permission to allow all your audio and animation to be used in exhibitions and future versions of the Holding Time Project which may include film, video, social media, VR and audio versions.
What are the writing workshops and how will my writing be used?
You will work with other mothers to create your own written piece about your breastfeeding journey. Led by the experienced BBC Producer, Rachel New, the workshops will run over six weeks. This collaborative writing workshop will be delivered in partnership with venue partners and light refreshments will be available. It is perfectly fine to bring small children/babies.
What will happen to my writing when the workshops are over?
Once your writing is complete, we will invite you to make an audio and video recording. These recordings are used to promote the project and increase public awareness of the experiences of infant feeding.
Is there any oversight of the project?
This project has been created in collaboration with Infant Feeding Leads and heath professionals/academics in Bradford. It is being evaluated by Dr Beth Fisher at Bradford University to measure the benefits to mothers taking part. Dr Fisher will ask you to share your experience of the project in an interview or questionnaire. This is not a requirement of taking part.
If you have any further questions please email us at info@holdingtime.org or text Lisa on 07816577140