I’m so enjoying working in the studio, despite the cold. I’m trying to get into a routine of 2 days there a week. It has been quiet since Mia and I moved in, but yesterday three other artists were there and it felt like more of a community. I’m having a meeting next week to take over responsibility for the website. It will be good to get it up to date.
I had a day researching Victorian underwear at Gawthorpe Hall this week, for the work that I’m developing from my last residency. They have a massive textile collection and the staff are so helpful, but I just didn’t have long enough. I looked at the construction of knickers, chemises and combinations, but I could have done with a day per garment.
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-gawthorpeha…
They also told me about a 19th century book called ‘The Workwoman’s Guide’ which has construction details for everything from clothes to curtains. I found a digital version, so I spent yesterday creating some basic patterns and next week I will take in some cotton sheets and start sampling.
I’m thinking about applying for an internship with BlankMedia. I’ve been very impressed with the shows they have curated, and I had a mentoring session with them which was really helpful. I think that I have time at the moment and it would be an opportunity to get more links with the Manchester arts scene. Their exhibition at Nexus Art Cafe is on until 11th April, and their Greenroom exhibition is on until 10th April and both are worth seeing
http://www.blankmediacollective.org/events/
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