My next Mentor was Pauline de Souza, Founding Director of Diversity Arts Forum and Senior Lecturer at the University of East London. Pauline knows my work as we teach together at the University Of East London and are both members of Salon 16, a supportive meet up group for women, artists, writers and curators, where she has seen me talk about my practice.
Pauline came to my studio in late October 2017. She was very hands on and made some helpful suggestions about the work as well as proving me with contacts of people to contact in different institutions that might be of help to me.
We discussed my recent terrible experience with the Migration Museum and she suggested that I contact the Arts Council and other bodies for advice and though I should make them aware of how myself and other artists are disrespected by this museums unethical practices. Since then she has also given me direction on issues of copyright, confidentiality, proposal writing and making connections.
After much questioning and discussion Pauline suggested I stop doing commissions, for a while at least and spend some time making the work I want to make. That I take time to play and explore processes and materials without content and agenda, “to let my brain and hands breathe”, I thought she articulated this very well. Her observations and advice also reflected my earlier conversation with Rosie and seems a clear way forward, emphasising how I can best nurture myself and build resilience in order to thrive.
