D.I.Y. as Privilege: A Manifesto

By Richard Phoenix

Originally a one-page manifesto, this poignant and funny pamphlet documents over a decade of experiences, both supporting musicians with learning disabilities and being part of a D.I.Y. punk scene. Through anecdotes, observations and the voices of the people he’s met along the way, artist Richard Phoenix shares moments that have stayed with him, and shows us how he re-evaluated his perception of Do-It-Yourself culture. Featuring Daniel Wakeford, Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät, The Fish Police, Beat Express, Robyn Steward, Electric Fire and more.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Rough Trade Books
• Release date: Nov 18, 2020
• ISBN: 9781912722822

Richard Phoenix

RICHARD PHOENIX is an artist living and working in London who uses painting, drawing, writing, interaction and music to learn about how people can be together. He has worked with learning disability arts organisations and individual artists and musicians since 2006 as a facilitator, collaborator and project co-ordinator. He is currently Artist-in-Residence in the Tate’s Schools and Teachers Department and Associate Artist for organisation Heart n Soul. His involvement within the UK’s D.I.Y. music scene includes being in the bands Sauna Youth, Monotony, Child’s Pose, The Steal and Captain Everything!, among others—and his own artistic practice informs his interest in how accessibility and inclusion can improve things for all. He founded Constant Flux in 2013 to support bands with learning disabilities to tour the UK and play integrated gigs. He has worked for organisations such as Heart n Soul, Carousel, Club Soda, Culture Shift and Stay Up Late supporting people with learning disabilities to form bands, create music, record and perform; as well as organising countless other gigs, releases, events and projects.