A few days later, and the dust has started to settle. Examining the nature of a community based residency, and its requirements, we decided to uproot, and move right into the heart of Andover. I think it’s important to be as close to the studios as possible. This has already proved really useful, as the public duties are starting to rack up. It’s a post quite unlike anything I’ve had before, and although the amount of fresh un-trodden ground is quite daunting, the support I’m getting from the folk at Test Valley Arts Foundation is very uplifting! I’ve attended the opening of a schools community arts project, met with the senior arts officer to discuss programmes, and have a slot at the next Café Culture event in a couple of weeks. Tomorrow I’m meeting a collection of councillors and Important People who could make a big difference in the next 12 months if their support is elicited. Then on Saturday we’re off to Salisbury to check out their external lighting systems.
Due to various building snags, I’ve yet to actually gain the keys to the studios (although that joyous part is imminent). Nevertheless, the sense of involvement within the Andover community is growing rapidly. Press releases, radio interviews, mayoral meetings…all these things convey a sense of sincerity from Test Valley Arts, and add to my excitement of being part of a project that gains potential everyday.
