I owe David Barrett a great deal. Since we met on Stuart Brisley's Fine Art Media MA at the Slade in 1995 David has continued to take a proactive interest in me and my practice -even when I was doubtful!
Now, as the result of his nomination, I'm going to Venice with Pilot 3 (www.pilotlondon.org)
It will be my first time at the Biennale, and despite having gone through old copies of Frieze and Art Monthly I don't think anything will prepare me for the sheer scale of the opening weekend.
David maintains his practice alongside lecturing and criticism. He's also one half of Royal Jelly Factory – Lucy Head is the other. Together they publish artist's monographs and websites. Their enthusiasm and commitment is truely inspiring and I am very fortunate to know them.
Project Me is somehow enabling me to recognise, value and actually enjoy relationships that previously I just 'didn't get'. Re-engaging with my practice, spending time in the studio and with artists is making me better! And being better – a better artist, a better friend, a better me – can only be a good thing. The more I have the more I have to offer ….
