AA2A
27.10.09
I suppose in many ways this is a new blog as I am starting a new project but in another way it is just a continuation of previous working practices. Visiting Nottingham Trent University last week was an uplifting experience. Myself and 3 other artists have been selected for the AA2A residency programme at Nottingham Trent. This basically means that we are able to use their facilities, library so that we are able to produce a new piece or new body of work. We get some money for materials and the emphasis is also on engaging with the students and the work they are also doing. It is brilliant that they want us to be really involved at this level, rather than just use their stuff and then leave. We have each been assigned a level, so I am level three, which means I will work with the third years. I will present my work to them at some stage over the coming weeks but I will also present the work of the other artists. It is really important that we know each other’s work inside out too so that we present it in the best way possible. The two selectors are also very keen for us to collaborate together (if this works for us) and mentioned the possibility of showing together or separately at The British Art Show in a year’s time. I am really excited by the possibility of making a new body of work, I know and realise that my practice is changing direction (from the private to the social) and I hope I can really exploit this in the coming months.
On a glibber note …. Money is always an issue for an artist. I have been doing the odd day substitute teaching in schools. This is a little depressing as you are just there to keep crowd control in check. There is a possibility of doing a longer supply stint teaching art but I don’t think this is the right direction for me. At £135/ day I could quite comfortably clear out my debts and even save some money BUT I know that my practice will suffer as a result. Hopefully the two to three times a week subbing will keep things on an even keel. In half term I am doing a Halloween themed art workshop for 11 year olds, which is well paid. If I could get more of this work then I would be happy girl. Meeting with the other AA2A artists tonight so we can get to know each other’s work a little better – should be fun!!
