Mystic Joe (2019)

Summary

Mystic Joe was commissioned by Crawley Borough Council to create an engaging and creative way to gather critical feedback about arts and culture development within the local community. Touring over 30 locations in the South, Mystic Joe interacted with over 3,000 residents across eight months, offering voice-over fortunes, fun reminders of cultural events, and incentives to encourage participation in a brief survey.

Technology

Mystic Joe features a lightweight and portable setup, including:

• A Raspberry Pi
• iPad
• Travel router
• Receipt printer
• Speaker

The system uses custom software to guide users through a series of questions, accompanied by audible read-outs and playful remarks. Designed for touring, it is simple to operate, easy to maintain, and includes options to export gathered data in formats compatible with Crawley Borough Council’s preferred survey tool, SNAP Mobile.

Key features:

• Operates for up to 8 hours on built-in battery power.
• Water-resistant for outdoor use.

Photos

Transparency Report

Do you have access to the data gathered?

No. The data is stored on the device and is not connected to the internet. Only Crawley Borough Council staff have access.

How will the data be used by Crawley Borough Council?

Per the contract with the council, the data collected will comply with GDPR regulations. The information will be used to analyze responses and develop an Arts and Culture strategy for Crawley. The data will not be shared with third parties for marketing purposes.

Why is this important?

As an artist working with public data, I believe transparency about data collection and usage is a key responsibility. This ensures trust and ethical engagement.

Upcoming Exhibitions

January

• Mon 28: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, Crawley Library
• Tues 29: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM, The Hawth

February

• Thurs 7: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM, The Hawth
• Fri 8: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM, Bewbush Children & Family Centre
• Mon 11:
• 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM, Broadfield Children & Family Centre
• 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM, K2 Leisure Centre
• Tues 12: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM, The Hawth
• Additional dates and times available on Crawley Borough Council’s website.

March

• Mon 4: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM, Langley Green Children’s & Family Centre
• Tues 5: 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM, Northgate Learn & Play
• Sat 16: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, Wordfest Family Day at Crawley Library

For a complete list, visit the Crawley Borough Council website.

Credits

Voice Over: Freddie Hill

Mystic Joe was commissioned by Crawley Borough Council and supported by Arts Council England. It was produced by Louise Blackwell and Naomi Alexander.