Power, control and the role of status within craft communities of practice

What observations can you make about the power structure of your own craft community of practice?

Status can significantly impact power, control, and the power structure within craft communities of practice as knowledge, beliefs, and norms are constructed and maintained through community members' interactions and agreements.

The distribution of power and control within a craft community of practice can shape the collective understanding of needs and priorities and determine who gets to shape and maintain that understanding.

Status is an important factor that can impact the distribution of power and control within a community. Members with higher status within the community, such as those with greater expertise, experience, prestige, knowledge, or financial resources, often have more influence over and access to the community's shared knowledge, norms, and practices.

They may also have greater access to resources and opportunities that shape the collective understanding of the community’s needs and priorities. And ultimately, more access yields more influence to maintain their dominance within the community.

Other factors, such as gender, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, can also influence the distribution of power and control.

We understand well the power and influence that curators, writers, donors, and collectors can wield within a community of creative people seeking recognition and support.

The intersection of these factors further shapes the structure of power within a craft community of practice and, thereby, impacts how the community's norms, practices, and goals are constructed and maintained.

Status plays a significant role in impacting power and control and the power structure of craft communities of practice.

Understanding and evaluating the dynamics of power and status within craft communities is vital for critically examining and challenging dominant narratives, promoting a democratic ethos, and ensuring inclusivity in craft communities of practice.