An ideation workshop focusing on creative approaches to engaging audiences with topics that might be considered controversial or challenging, such as the social/political/economic aspects of our relationships with nature, health and technology. We will explore the balance of boldness and sensitivity that these topics require. Speakers will each deliver a brief introduction to a project that used a creative or unexpected angle to handle such content. Discussion will follow, allowing attendees to gain deeper insight into the rationale and decisions of these engagements as well as what worked and what didn’t. Participants can explore curveball approaches to engaging specific audiences with difficult content, share their ideas and discuss with the whole workshop.

This playful exploration will help participants realise we don’t need to avoid controversial topics if we approach the content and audience creatively and thoughtfully.

This session is part of the Misinformation and trust in science conference track.