Taking paper from the house to the shed and back in this unrelenting rain is a challenge. As are the leaks in the shed roof: not a good combination with paper – could lead to mould.
The work itself is developing – certainly getting bigger and I feel now that some kind of rhythm is beginning to establish itself. It is still surprising to me how using a particular set of processes can allow me to produce work that I cannot wholly conceive before hand. As the work develops I am responding to it rather than directing it. There are some aspects which I influence – the direction of the light source, which areas to build up, what paper I choose and where I place it. Whilst some of the decisions are really quite instinctive others take more contemplation (the lighting for example) my overall feeling with the work is that it is almost in charge of me – I am just facilitating it’s making. The shape of the map is predetermined and the paper I receive is really just the luck of the drawer. This feels good to me, makes the process challenging and revelatory.
I recently (31st March) did a one day residency at Muswell Hill Library. Mainly it was an awareness generating day as the work is really only in its infancy, but I was there with the work, both working on it and chatting to people about the project. Overall a good experience, it’s interesting to see how people are drawn to maps, they really just can’t resist siting themselves in them. Looking forward to my next ‘proper’ residency at the Local Gallery, Avenue Mews, Muswell Hill, N10, from 18th-20th May.
I have been going through some bits of donated paper recently and came across this little gem – it must be from some kind of Health an Safety Ledger from the 90’s. The last entry is a treat..!
Aha! I have just submitted my ACE application. there was a scary moment when I thought I’d deleted it all but no – I’ve just had an email! Phew! After 6 months of planning it’s finally off! I really have no idea whether it’ll get anywhere – I’m suffering the usual doubts – but it’s been quite an experience just doing it. I’m sure I’ll have benefitted in some way – even if it’s not ultimatley financially. Watch this space for updates…
