NAN

In December 2007, Videoclub was granted a NAN Go and See bursary to travel to Hamburg for research and development. Artists’ Networks Coordinator Emilia Telese talks to Jamie Wyld about the bursary and its impact on the group:

ET: Jamie, tell us about Videoclub.

JW:Videoclub was set up in 2005, founded by artists Laura Mousavi, Ben Rivers and myself, with the main aim of showcasing new artists' film and video. We are now in our fifth year of events, redefining our approach annually, using open submission, inviting curators and collaborating with artists' groups to develop and innovate upon conventional screening practices. Our aims are to develop platform opportunities for artists working in film, video and moving image; to create opportunities to critically discuss work; and to create opportunities for audiences to gain greater understanding and enjoyment of artists' moving image. 

ET: What did you want to achieve through your NAN bursary?

JW:The main aim of our visit was to meet with A Wall is a Screen (AWIAS), a Hamburg-based arts organisation that specialises in producing moving image tours of cities internationally. Our intentions were: to take part in an event, to develop an association with A Wall is a Screen, to share knowledge and ideas about showcasing moving image, and to discuss an event in Brighton by the group.

ET: What did you find out during your trip?

JW: Our visit to Hamburg was a success; we took part in an A Wall is a Screen event, which was quite amazing, with over a 1000 participants in the tour; it felt so inspiring to see that many people out to see artists' films projected onto the walls of the city. We met with A Wall is a Screen and talked about the Brighton event, which we were able to discuss more firmly due to the visit, and confirmed dates for the event. We also talked about potential future collaborations, the potential for developing other international activity together and innovative ways of showcasing moving image outdoors.

ET: What do you think will be the effect of your NAN bursary for your group in the long term?

JW: Members of AWIAS have subsequently been to visit us in Brighton, during August 08, to do a preliminary visit. On 25 October, they will do A Wall is a Screen as part of the White Night celebrations in Brighton, with videoclub as host. The impact upon videoclub will be: an increased international profile, through AWIAS's network and promotional work; future opportunities for AWIAS and videoclub to collaborate; a better understanding and knowledge about working with international partners; the opportunity to talk to AWIAS about their experiences; and to develop videoclub's practice regarding showing artists' work.

The Go and See bursary has been really important with regards to developing an international relationship which we can see developing in the future. It will expand videoclub's network and our opportunities to collaborate with an international partner. It has also developed our knowledge and experience in techniques and methods of showing artists' moving image work.

Videoclub is online at www.videoclub.org.uk

First published: a-n.co.uk July 2010