ALICE MAYERS - Capturing life stories
I capture life stories, that is what I do, what I love to do, it is something that I am super passionate about and I get fabulous reviews. Check out my google reviews or read my testiminials and see what others think.
When I capture life stories I hear a lot about you my storyteller, so think it is only fair if I tell you a little about me.
After leaving university, I followed my passion to become a field archaeologist. Being the first person to feel and hold an object since it had been discarded or lost by a Roman, a Viking or even a WWII airman was exhilarating. I felt that I was privy to a past moment in an otherwise long-forgotten and unknown person’s life.
From archaeology, I moved into museums and other heritage and cultural organisations, where I could help objects speak to wider audiences. Seeing a child gasp as they held a mesolithic stone axe - an important piece of someone’s hunting kit - was a powerful moment.
It felt natural to me, where possible, to add real voices to those objects, through oral history, reminiscence sessions and education workshops. I witnessed children, spellbound, as elders recollected their childhood memories of playing in bombsites and rationing.
I worked with former pupils of the Foundling Hospital, who spoke to young people in care and leaving care today about their experiences. These were always poignant and incredibly empowering meetings.
I have worked with many young people to tell their own stories and explore their own identities through film, photography, theatre, visual arts, and other creative media. I realise that a strong personal identity and an understanding of the views of others can give young people the confidence to lead their own successful lives.
Everyone has a story that should be captured and preserved, which is why I set up The Story Keepers. I believe your story, your life story is important and sharing your story is a gift to your family. Your stories need to be told and need looking after. I will capture and record your life story, or your family stories in your own words.
At The Story Keepers, I now work with a small team of freelance designers, video biographers, family historians, and editors, and photo restorers, bringing in their skills where necessary to create a fantastic final product.
I am a member of the Oral History Society, and hold an enhanced DBS check.
Alice Mayers