Comments flowing!!!

Hello - from a weary performer!!  Just a little too long for me (2hours).  Still, I can`t say I didnt enjoy it, because it gave me so much insight into the way Religion and it`s appendices are viewed -or not - nowadays. The 2 hrs went so quickly - we had many viewers, and it was very exciting for us all.  There is a rota this week so all the artists wont be in together now until we have to dismantle on Friday p.m.  If you can my friends - do come and see the work, and grab a cuppa and cake.  The venue is a wonderful old victorian property in immaculate condition:  15 Dudley Street, Grimsby.

The pic on the left includes an illuminated sculpture by Barrie Hughes, from his current work, and also depicts part of my performance work.

POIGNANT or what?








The picture below is my paying homage to the `door` with a symbolic gesture.  Also showing some art-work in the background by Monica Leeman.

On the way home from the very exciting opening night we called at Louth to see the huge crochetdermy Lions in the square, suitably installed in glass containers, by Shauna Richardson.   It is difficult to describe the size of these lions - awesome!

I am so glad I got to see them - caught a small glance of her work in Berlin  - The golden Teddy.  This will probably be a travelling display - take a look at her web page to check.

That is about all the news for now  - ciao e` questo clima estivo - non badarla!

`Invisible killer`

Hello -I know it sounds (why sounds)  dramatic, and you may think I`m slightly mad but I maintain this disability is `killing`.  Okay!  Just imagine you walk into a room full of `friends, relatives, acquaintances, colleagues etc, and on a good day it is okay - in fact you can probably get the gist of ongoing events that have been discussed by clarifying with a Buddie later on, and that means making sure you have got all the info correct!  You gather in small groups perhaps and begin to converse - good if you can see the lips.  Over the years I have gradually, subconsciously picked up the ability to `read` lips.  Straight on helps (sideways a little more difficult, depending on the level of hearing at that moment.  Large rooms - difficult, conversations from a distance - difficult, conversations turned away - difficult.   I don`t mean to make anyone feel that I`m asking for guilty apologies -  NO NO NO - its just that this week has been particularly awful.  The last month it has been approaching slowly - then Wham - full-blown distortion of life!  I hope it will be fixed on the 18th June, what I will do if it isn`t, madness springs to mind.   I have joked in the past that sometimes it is useful to turn off my aid when noise crescendos and bounces - can I now say to the Gods of fate -  I didn't mean it.
Briefly, my ear (only one good one ) is blocked, not by neglect, but by a prescription medication prescribed on the 7th which meant I could not have my re-test obviously, but was sent to have my ear flushed by the syringing method - result: bruised ear.  Nursing it now to hopefully try again on Monday!!! I wonder - are there any advances in this field? We can get solvents for all sorts of things can we not?

I leave that epiphyanistic dialogue now to normal things!

I have retrieved my work from college - now it is dispersed between home and Dudley Street.  My door and my feet - sculpted by hand in clay but not fired - are ready for display in the groups exhibition, commencing on the 25th June until 29th June. we open on the Monday evening with refreshments etc.

This a detail shot of another piece that will hopefully find a place there.  It relates to the `Tree of Life`.  I have re-worked it slightly from the original. 


Some other things completed - to start the ball rolling with our `Degree show Fund` are the ear-rings. So far I have made twenty five pairs. Fiddley job though.  There will have to be a consensus on the selling charge with my colleagues.

I have tried to make these as diverse as possible - in fact no two pairs are the same!



Other activities from a personal view point is limited, but I intend to get going with something practical soon - just wish I could get rid of this HISSING noise, which has intensified with the loss of hearing.

I bought a lovely Sketch-book from in house (college shop) - it has a snake skin design, and anyone that knows me well knows how much I admire the design and texture of natural animal skin.   I have been reading lots and lots - mostly to do with memories and its different types, interspersed with re-reading on favourite artists. 

The `tops` bag for Paul is gradually getting some depth to it - I hope he`s not expecting too much.

Hope to see everyone at our exhibition - IF - thats IF - I`m feeling better There may be a performance in the offing.

Ciao!

The `Waiting` Weather or not?

Salve mi Amici,  What a difference the sun can make to the day. We do need the rain of course, so I`m trying not to complain.  Still wet days are baking days - chocolate of course.

I have been slightly hampered with aches and pains this week so have not been very active in the garden, however I made some impression and did plant up some ` pretties`in hope.  As far as art is concerned, it is difficult to stop - the mind is a wayward component - I love it!

We went to catch up with number one son yesterday and also to fit in a couple of galleries - in Manchester.
The `Cornerhouse` an exhibition of short films, european I think - interesting nevertheless.  Then Manchester Gallery, Mosley Street, two exhibs going on there atm, one was an African display and that was incredible, plus very diverse in content.  Photography, film, sculpture and installation work, some with recycled materials.  Also particularly interesting for me, an interactive piece before entry.  Paul King was in mind when I saw the first huge piece - about 25 feet long and nearly as deep - made from re-cycled bottle tops. I wonder what he will do with the tops he receives from his savers of tops?   The taking of photos was prohibited so can`t show you what I`m talking about - but to say I could have walked round again and again and will probably go again since its on until September must give you some idea of the impact it had on me.

The Photography exhibition was beautiful also - it included a Sara Lucas and a Cornelia Parker!

Some try-out sculpture last week was quite successful, for me and I must admit it is infectious plus I think it is possible to do loads of work with it - what do you think????

This was my first try and so a bit crude.  This is only amusement really, still good though.

Also, can I share my pleasure of getting in  touch with my cousin Jean, and her family. She has retired quite near to us - York.  The following picture is of my Paternal Grandfather - I have never seen this before, why I cannot say, but isn`t he handsome, a great photo`.  Imagine please - getting to the age of 64 and then to see a picture of a worthy relative (of which I had no idea existed) - long story - AMAZING HIGH.

Finally, I would like to thank my son and his partner for a great gallery trawl, after a scrumptious lunch at Jamie Olivers, and shopping for nibbles at Carluccio`s. Really Special treat.  Came home late listening to Diane `somethingorother` on the radio and singing along to sixties music - Great day altold, and not much traffic to boot. 

CIAO!

`ART - FULL` again!!

Thursday set off for London, overnight stay to return on the 14.08 from Kings Cross to Newark on Friday.  The after effects of trawling the Nat. Portrait Gallery steps, and later climbing the sharp slope up to Maresfield Gardens to view The Freud Museum and look at Louise Bourgeois installations and pieces and analytic writings, once and then again later on to listen to Prof. Griselda Pollock on Psychic Geometry was not only worth it, it was invaluable for me - I now understand my own feelings and how they managed to take hold of my whole being without deterioration.  The flash-backs to experiences of silences, and secrets, of guilty looks, of sad looks, disdainful looks, lustful looks, and the very last look I received from my mother.  I still feel the guilt of this, I shouldnt have left, even though she was surrounded by others.  She was the very spring this piece of life had sprang from and I was the latest spew!  The last successful offspring of life.  This is for her - my art will be my gift. Be it good or bad, I know she won`t mind.  ART IS EVERYTHING AND EVERYBODY:  ART IS LIFE.

I want to say after this monologue, that pain can be controlled and that`s just as well.
It was obvious that my companion was feeling the pace - but we were having such a good look at all we could.   The querie my colleague had for the curator at the Portrait Gallery was safely despatched, and then a short wait for entry to the Lucien Freud
 exhibition.  Displayed chronologically, it showed his prowess and strength right up to his last brush stroke.  This exhibition, even for a non-painter is awesome.
Unfortunately I have no pics of it - but plenty of praise!

Friday morning - Tate Britain.  The new design is coming along nicely, but unfortunately, for me too many steps - and this was to take its toll on me later into the evening.  The first display we came across was very interesting - I have made a mental challenge to note all ways and types of display of art-work, this year.  The four seperate displays consisted of mixed pieces of work with a very subtle connection running through them - interesting to see the inclusion of video/film clips shown together with new works (perhaps paintings) and older works i.e. Graham Sutherland paintings, placed on stands of modern simplicity.

 This was a refreshing way to appreciate the old masters.   We saw some beautiful abstracts by Frank Bowling  - a technique of slip/slide/pour painting.  A Francis Bacon I havent seen before - The Dog.  Which I`m sure you will agree is full of movement.


 

I took particular note of the following sculpture display - the plinth was un-adorned, un-painted and revealed only as it appeared - a cardboard box!

My thought turned instantly to Chris.
I feel he would approve of this?  He is so up to speed with modernity.

The meeting for the proposed exhibition for our group went ahead on Wednesday at Dudley Street.  The venue is large and will take careful handling, however it is decided to go ahead for the 25th - 29th June.  I`ll keep you posted.  We want as many of the group to take part and hope they will as it could be the start of our Degree Show Promotions and money raising for same.  At the moment I`m waiting to hear from a colleague who will be graduating this year as I have a possible prop for her space at Western, its getting close now - hope everything goes well and look forward to next Friday evening.  Best of luck to you all.  Caio!

"TIME OUT" All done and dusted.

Well, it`s that feeling I/ we felt last assessment, and last year when we finally handed in all we had to hand in.  The describing of this veil like phenomena that envelopes you after the frantic actions and soul/mind searching that precedes the words of finality and the last look before withdrawing and vacating your space and your work, is totally incommunicable.  This sensation will last until we drift back into the lighter side of conventional living, pressure-less, but sometimes bland.  Let`s face it, can we live without it, it`s part of our being, it will not lie down, we`ve got to go on, and that`s why we are what we are - artists, and we love it!  Leave a comment please if you think I have got it wrong, or let me know how you would describe the abandonment of the `Lamb to the Lions` syndrome.

For my last effort - I tried to source a `time-lag` connection for my confessional light.  This proved unsuccessful, with Maplins sending me round to Edmundsons who didnt have any stock of what I required.  It would have cost around £20 but if the switch or contraption is handy for future use it is not too much to pay.   The light can of course be switched on - but for a professional installation it would have been necessary to build a small room with maybe a doorway with a sensor mat, or movement sensor light
activated by the viewer.   I`m liking the idea of small rooms!!  The art ideas never stop do they? I will include some pics now:

The finished feet.

In position.

A fellow student helped me transport my main piece up to studio - always grateful for his help.  The floor is his doing too - looks good doesnt it? 
Do the feet look servile enough I wonder.

Possibly?

The inner feeling for this piece is saying yes, so they will become part of this piece and the shoes which are used with a metaphorical concept with regard to the experiential memory of doors and my reluctance to connect with them, or indeed to cross their threshold, will be placed on the step with the socks in readiness of the daily journey to church.





I will be in college next Wednesday morning to meet up with our group and catch up with news and then onto view a possible exhibition site!!  It is very exciting, and I am proud to be part of this innovative and forward looking set.  We hope to be well ahead for the raising of funds for the degree show in 2013.  Like some of the others I will miss the third years and look forward to being there when they finally go on show together in a couple of weeks time.  Good luck to everyone!

`Deadline` upon us!

Wow!  what a week.  So much activity in college - it`s jumping - it`s live!  Well, thats life I believe, one minute you`re coasting then suddenly there`s a buzz.  I can`t say I would have it any other way, but at the start of the week it seemed a mountain to climb, and that has reduced to a molehill.  It has been said that my cup is always half-full!  So I`ve got to be thankful for that.

Tidy up week - paint everywhere and filling in cracks, both human and structural. Some cracks appearing under the pressure.  Think of a problem then realise there is always someone worse off, thats my motto.  My performance was downloaded to a DVD version for hand in, so thats another tick for the list. It is a better quality from the last try in that the pixelation is much less.  I had a positive tutorial this week, and my main piece is almost finished and ready for placing in situ in the studio.  The `Candle Overload` is also at the point of readiness and holding up - in that - it`s not falling off/down!

There are one or two more candles to go on this piece - then it is done.

Having spent quite a lot of time down in 3D this week - they must be sick of the sight of me, but will endeavour to transfer my main installation piece to studio soon:
 
THE DOOR:  This is the most important piece yet - as I now know where my experimental work has lead to.  Taking me to the point of recognition.  I have no pics yet, but will get some to this blog next week.

The design students have been busy this week continuing with the assembling of their Pods.  Hotel/Bed suites.  They have  also been in 3D working and so I have seen the development of these - they are very innovative and quite unique, but I guess that is what design is all about. 

We have also seen performances from the first year students - we had an invitation to one of them - really very good interpretation of the beginning of the world `Genesis`.
Barrie and I gave an impromptu pep talk to year 1 yesterday - although they all seem to be doing well - still they appreciated the few words of encouragement.

Chris`s class tomorrow a.m. and who knows what that will bring?

Caio - a presto.

degree journal: The `DREAM SYNDROME` effect!

degree journal: The `DREAM SYNDROME` effect!:  I cant tell you how the time has increased its momentum-  you know the feeling when you have a dream when it `s a necessity to run, and you...

The `DREAM SYNDROME` effect!

 I cant tell you how the time has increased its momentum-  you know the feeling when you have a dream when it `s a necessity to run, and you cant feel the movement in your legs?  thats how it feels with work right now!  two steps forwards and three steps back.
However, I am staying positive as the other one doesnt help - it just seems that there is so much to do to complete.  Analysing it though, it is just small parts of each item that needs some TLC.  The most trouble is the filming of my performance.  I tried again on Friday with help from Barrie, but the noise encroachment from the class next door was too much for the recording.  Sharon Parkinson from Media at Main site has given me a name of an enthusiastic person - unfortunately - I have had no luck with contact yet, but will try again tomorrow.

The Dissertation plan has been turned in via `Turnitin` so thats one off the list.  It may be presentations next week but I think I`m prepared for that.  The Tutors will have so much reading to do with all this for every student! 

I have decided to make my feet - which are only a possibility for the installation, from clay as the Mod roc one was too small with the skim of plaster for the shoes I bought, we`ll see what they turn out like - or if I will just use the shoes.

The Freud Museum has an exhibition of Louise Bourgeois on there until 27th May, so I have booked a trip to London on the 17th with an overnight stay at the Royal National, to see "The Return of the Repressed", and hopefully get a couple more galleries in as well.  £92.00 for return train and stay didnt seem too bad.   The above is one of my favourite sculptures from Bourgeois.  I am hoping to use Bourgeois within my Dissertation next year - thats if I dont change my mind, or indeed if something more appropriate shakes my roots.  Anselm Kiefer is keeping me occupied with his interpretations of Paul Celan`s poetry, especially `Death Fugue`.  The cultural guilt of the entire nation seems to be displayed in his work.  The text within his work also intrigues me - just so simply shown, but ceaslessly haunting.

I will take some time now to perfect my second foot - thats the right one!
Hoping the weather improves everywhere soon! Caio e state bene.




                            

degree journal: Half way April !

degree journal: Half way April !: This week has been very interesting and quite productive after the break.  I went directly from college to the Preview of Gary Woods Photo...

Half way April !

This week has been very interesting and quite productive after the break.  I went directly from college to the Preview of Gary Woods Photography at Abbey Walk Gallery, and really enjoyed it. So different and technically excellent.  I would recommend this exhibition.

 My tutorial with Paul Sparks went very well, and he was happy with my dissertation plan, so that will just need a look over and the bibliography added to complete for hand-in.  I am soooo pleased.

The third year students are beavering away with dissertation etc - due in three weeks I believe!! Ahh!  I am sure they have all got this under their belt and will concentrate on their degree show/exhibition work - which is showing signs of building up.

I have now almost completed my entrance piece to my installation - the door - I put more screws in place where needed and tried the keys on the hangers - they do look as I wanted - enough showing to stimulate curiosity for the viewer.  Ideas for the placement of this piece has changed course because of the weight.  Anyway, talks with the Mike in 3D have been fruitful and we are all set to go with this next week, and then onto the candle piece/s.

The candle shelf work is more complex and is taking quite a bit of setting up.  The small  candles with the integrated money may well be a seperate piece.  I am purposely taking my time with this as it has changed a few times - as readers of this blog will know. 

Today I have been using Alabaster Plaster to complete my feet - the first one is looking okay, but it is difficult to photograph.  The mod-roc template just about fitted the shoe - so it will only need a skim, otherwise it will be too big for the shoe.  Hopefully it will be okay to use with the door piece?

I may be visiting the `Main site` next week - April rang them to see if they could help me with my performance film piece - have to admit it isn`t very good as it is.  April thought it was worth going ahead to perform and film it in the proper type of studio with some technical help so I will contact them on Monday, to see what they can do to help me improve the outcome.

Feeling very positive still, and pleased with the work in production, I will take my leave until next week.  A Presto mi amici!




































































Who stole March - the Lion or the lamb?

Caio mi amici, spero ha tanti lavorativo?
The mind work is much more taxing than the practical isn`t it?  I have been checking my writing for hand-in, thats proposals and reflections etc., but we still have to be briefed on this so it may change again - but at least I am prepared for that.  The Presentation is also checked over and will hopefully go okay.

Reading and researching is so good for us - the ideas when researching an artist that you may have an affinity with or your work has, - is interesting as ideas just seem to pop up from somewhere and you find yourself thinking in one vein and reading at the same time??   Which means of course you lose track of one somewhere and need to re-cap once in a while - thats when you need a notebook at your side.  There is one more idea I have re my studio practice and as I haven`t really decided yet I`m going to keep that to myself.  I have found a source I need for materials to carry on with i.e. thats next year, and so I`m relatively comfortable with that.  This will be a short blog as it is difficult to show how work with descriptive pieces is getting on short of actually showing the outcomes - anyway suffice to say I have done what I can, with some sketchbook catch-up to boot.
Caio - a presto!

No-bus syndrome blues!

Ah well - I am used to fitting in with the majority - what else can you do? but take the middle road -  and there is the shortage of fuel I suppose!   I hope all FE students are enjoying there Easter break.  College is quiet without them.  The plan was to tie up all sorts of loose ends to do with my work - that didnt happen!  As stated in previous blog I wanted to get some help from Mike (technician) to cut some metal rods that were too long to go comfortably through my door and connect with another handle - I missed the opportunity several times, but did ask him about my hand cast.  He didnt advise the drilling into, in case of pressure and disintegration which would totally ruin it, and although I didnt complete the project, at least I have a better idea of what I am likely to do.  I am pleased with the hand as it is and decided to leave the excess plaster on it as I think it is quite appropriate in relation to my hand being damaged during carpal tunnel operation a few years ago.  It is not the most beautiful of mitts, and it does hamper me at times, with lack of feeling and pain/swelling, but it is my hand and has registered in parts the closeness and proximity to me as well as replication.  The skin texture and shape of the fingers is amazing, and is a surreal experience when holding ones own hand!

                                            
The veins are quite obvious
on the first pic - this is just with plaster, imagine what it would look like with more practice, and possibly silicon with pigment!


It does look like this - I did say it wasnt a pretty mitt!




















I would like to try and improve technique with casting, and hope to be able to cast a foot before next September.





You can appreciate the problem of mounting this piece - and the suggestion by Mike may well be the way I will take it.  It may be best on a thin plinth,  or just on a small shelf.

I`m thinking this would be part of the candle piece.   I have been trying to edit my film!!!  It is certainly not perfect but it has got some parts I like - the edgyness of it is compelling.  Barrie did a good job with the filming - small-time actor though! We had a laugh doing it - the props kept moving by themselves - spirits amongst us, and I accept it could have been mother as she does visit me at times.

These are molds of keys - for the door, and rather than attach the two sides together to make one key - I fashioned them to look like they make be emerging from the woodwork of the door:                                                                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                                                                    

                                         
There is no doubt I will have to pin (not literally) Mike down to doing my jobs and talk about the hanging of my door when we return to college - until then I will continue research for my dissertation plan which is really interesting, and hope it is a suitable subject.  I will try and improve the editing on the film - all 3 and half minutes of it.  Nel frattempo mi amici Buona Pasqua - non mangiare tanti cioccolatini - ciao!

Stepping Sprightly to Semester end!!

Hello - the tempo continues to increase - thought we would have a lull after Lightworks, but no it is still all go - with lots to do.  I found myself making lists!!!  How sad am I?   The Lightworks event went terrifically well - no doubt about it - sensational show.  If you missed it - TOUGH - make sure you dont next time and get those film bids in early!
The `Brainstorm` lecture on Friday 23rd with Chris went really well - some great suggestions came out of that and it was good to hear other opinions re work and sculpture for next year - we want more sculpture - more space and lots more people and things for them  to get involved with.  Also ideas re refreshments were chewed over. 

On the 24th - Saturday myself and Irene had volunteered to help at Abbey Walk Gallery, so we arrived at nearly 10am and made ourselves familiar with the works on show - lots to discuss and deliberate over - some beautiful work, and no wonder Picasso was such a womaniser - he was a bit of a hunk - dark and sultry!  Yes, the exhibition is well worth the look.  Of course the portrait of the very edgy looking Van Gogh (supposedly) was in prime position, but my favourite was the Degas` who was quite handsome also.  The painted self portrait of Picasso was a little difficult to photograph because of the protective frame - so a bit of reflection, and a bit me too.

We had a really good day with lots of visitors, and also a bonus for us was the chance to talk to resident artists about their work.  I would really recommend this gallery to anyone - its not snobbish or anything like it - so comfortable - and Gill and Elaine make everyone welcome.

My personal work this week has been centred around my installation for assessment at semester end, and tutorials, which were very encouraging - I feel so positive about the way in which this piece is taking me.  Third year students are buzzing - then puffing - sighing - then laughing!!  All though are looking good with their work and getting last minute tasks attended to.   My door is filling up now and maybe it will get even more so,as I still am getting promised more handles and knobs!  I will hope to come in next week at least twice as I want to ask Mike for some help with some of the difficult handles, and also discuss the hanging of my door.  Yesterday was exciting as on Tuesday I had a mould of my right hand made and then plaster poured into the mould, so it had to be revealed! - It was amazing, and I was so surprised that nearly all my hand is clear but there are some bits that need filing and tidying up - but I`ll work on them.  As there was some alginate left I thought it would be good to do some of the keys and try to integrate them into the door piece, we`ll see.

The pic shows but a few:   Keys are a very important piece of kit, especially in connection with a door, and can be quite symbolic in art, with regard to connotation, and inference.

Tomorrow, we have lectures in the morning then in the afternoon I have booked F01 to film my performance piece.  I`m hoping to be able to get it right in the first session of recording, with a little help from my friend Barrie.  I have a sound piece ready to play at the same time as the filming - just the rehearsals to do now!

So until next week - Buona Pasque tutti!

                              

Post `Lightworks` ponderings!

Ciao - Is it the weather? It is raining, but its the terra firma feeling now - LIGHTWORKS  2012  was a sensational night all round.  Tiring though - but that could be other relative things.  Yes - it was buzzing - all day - all night - what a spectacle for Grimsby - Who enjoyed it?  let me know please.    Sitting with Caroline for a little break gave us the opportunity to meet a couple of the exhibiting artists - really appreciate you travelling to be with us.  One artist Margaret Sharrow came from Wales!  Margaret is a specialist in photographic processes and was really interesting to talk to - did you see her performance during `Lightworks` The Lady with the BIG hat and the little black dress trailing red ribbons behind her? Her exhibit was a short film.  You can catch up with her at :
margaretsharrowgreenland.blogspot.com to view her blog. and at www.wix.com/sharrowsrt/margaretsharrow

A group of us were involved with the childrens activity table - always a winner.  We had very simple cutting edge design lanterns this year and cookies and colouring in on printed sheets which were scanned by Sam and animated on a film, and also a growing paper streamer sculpture - which became very interesting with pieces from all ages making their mark for Lightworks.

I displayed my `Codex` piece outside of the Lady Chapel window - The vicar apprehended me placing it and said "Ahh thats who that belongs to!"  I had a real and very normal conversation with him regard my piece and my thoughts on religion.  I was so surprised with his reaction, as he actually agreed with my concept, and but for the dog-collar you wouldnt have been surprised to hear him swear mildly!!! (B......ks)  was the word he used. Unfortunately, because of `health and safety` issues I could not complete the piece with the barbed wire - but managed to include more tied books and an extra piece of wood that secured to the window mesh nicely.  It was a pity that the lighting outside wasnt too good - I should have had it lit but could not be with it all night so decided to let it be.

This week also brought group crits, which came and went as they do and in particular I appreciate Jeff`s way of implementing these.  The definite comments and concerns from all of the group and lastly from him allowed you to see another perspective on your own work.  Apparently it seems I have three strong pieces - lets hope I can prevail and  display them adequately to keep them strong, and thoughtful, to show the depth of feeling I`m trying to express through the objects and their configuration.  I feel I have all the necessary parts, I just need to address the rapprochement to bring to fruition.

The subject for my dissertation plan is changeable - confusing, I keep returning to my original idea of researching Arte Povera.  It may have modified in some ways, but still continues to give us pieces to aspire to.  Some great artists also: Guilio Paolini, Michaelangelo Pistoletto and the great Kounellis.  I think I may need some guidance on this.

So, once again mi amici - ciao; sono non continuare a parlare di qualcose - I will leave a quote from Aristotle (I have The Beatles in the background):-
           We give up leisure in order that we may have leisure,
            just as we go to war in order that we may have peace.

Buzzin Beautiful!! - AGLOW for LIGHTWORKS!

Ciao- Where did it go - this week has been quite hyper for all things but of course Lightworks is Prime position!   Jackie and Gina and I had a quick meeting (well several actually) to go over the children`s activity table, and we are confident that the things planned will be `cutting edge`.  The Minster layout is planned and ready to be installed with all sorts of great work from local and guest artists.  ( You must go see the wonderful films clips - my fav: Shamar Markus - Sleek! )

I tell you, we have all been working on neon - drive this week.  Especially Chris!  My ears can`t keep up with his vocals!  Of course I get the jist anyway. I`m not surprised,  with whats going on, the posters have fantastic designs and have now started to integrate Grimsby Town - Look up everyone! This year is having some fantastic coverage from our tweeters - It will be `A Sight for a Night` Miss it at your peril.

The frame I have made and aged is now waiting to be adorned by the many handles and knobs I have collected as part of my installation plan for the end of semester.  There are new and old but that`s okay as I wanted the thought process of the viewer to follow this time phenomenon, and be slightly perplexed by it.  The plan is to make this piece an enigma, and hopefully interesting, by the placement of these handles and perhaps some concealment also.   I have been sourcing some work I think is necessary to include with my second installation piece - with the same topic theme - and have been successful with that so at the moment I am happy!!!

How many people have touched these - tried to open them - closed them - lingered by them - pushed them and pulled them - used and abused them - stuttered by them - dared to  turn them - assumed they worked?                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

                                                                                                                                                                             

 I am really grateful for all the help I have had in accumulating all these handles and thank everyone who has contributed their stored door furniture.  It is amazing how much people in general do store away in the hope that one day it will `come in` and that it isn`t wasted, or someone like me with a particular quirk with regard to this type of door accessory will need it, and by that time (Months/Years?) they are happy to donate it, to possibly, anyone!

Well, I think that is it, for now.  Some studios have been painted, as has mine, but unfortunately, my walls are not great and it is still somewhat patchy.  I have to add some work to my `Codex` piece which will make another appearance at `LIGHTWORKS` on FRIDAY l6TH MARCH - THATS NEXT FRIDAY!!
It will need to be in 3D by next Thursday to be ready for dispatch to placement on the special day of the l6th!!  The actual location of my piece is not quite clear to me at least, as I wanted to hang it and if it is to go outside, then the only way to hang it is from a strong branch of a Minster tree.  It will all be alright on the night. BIG night, ONE NIGHT ONLY - BE THERE.
A presto mi amici!!

Berlin and back!

Wow! it was tiring, but worth it.  Age is telling and with related conditions makes life a little trying - but trying is the motto to live by.  Celebrations for Richter`s 80th birthday was very evident in Berlin. and so we had lots to remind us of our London trip! There were two retrospectives running in Berlin, and it was a treat to see both.  The Nationalgalerie showing of `Richter` was phenominal and showed us all just where we should be heading - I think!!  It was a very popular affair, and the diversity of age range and Richters art was astounding.  His compositions are amazing.  In particular I was taken by his work with photographs - almost dream-like, or maybe thats just how I felt!  It was difficult to imagine how two places could run simultaneously - and be successful, but they are doing it and it works.  His diversity of field is I believe, unsurpassable.  I certainly could not do justice to try and describe this though. Any how I will include a couple of pics from the galleries exhibits.

Reflections on` Richter the Great`.

Good connections though - yes!    What about the Richter below ?

                                                                          

This image of Richter`s glass screens are fascinating to look at and at every move the image
changes - thats Richter, fascinating.

My work this semester is quite emotional and the project is proving difficult to express, but I feel
I am getting there now.  The piece I started in studio has been dismantled  twice - but lets
hope it will be third time lucky.  I have been in touch with Canterbury cathedral for supplies and
will hopefully get that well on the way when I receive my candles.

This Kerze 11 (Candle 11), was my particular favourite, on this trip, and had my attention for what seemed a long time.  It is difficult to choose just one and I have to mention Richter`s screen print with 41 colours!! Can you imagine trying to better or even compare with that? The idea is mind-blowing.  This man could turn a pin into a work of art.  His illusions become realistic and visual. 

Berlin is full of beautiful art - ageless. 

Every corner of this city was welcoming and wonderful, and the evening in the Bierkeller at Alexanderplatz was memorable:  Loud, Lederhosen, Litres of beer and the like.  We took a taxi
home to the Hostel of which I have no complaints as it was clean with pleasant staff and plenty of
food and beverage.

To add a couple of pics of interest I must - this is project based and maybe I will use them this year or next.

What do handles say or do for you - I have a fear of doors and handles!!  I find them intimidating and the red door above stood out and shouted to me, so I started to record the diverse amount of door handles that existed in a relatively short space within this city.  Old doors with ornate and I suppose one could say beautifully made handles displayed to perfection on their surface, and new doors, some with new steel coloured ornamentation or with no ornamentation at all - automated - thats the door for me.  A door without a handle is `bliss`.  

Feeling a little more tired now - I will take some time to consider my dissertation plan, although not set in stone, it must reflect something of a connection to my work and what inspires me.......................................................................................
................I thought I would explore the concept of space in installation art.

A presto mi amici - ciao!

degree journal: Positively onward!

degree journal: Positively onward!: Well - the dentists work is a bit scratchy, but it isn`t finished yet so I will put up with it until March!! Tuesday - I was full and brimm...

Positively onward!

Well - the dentists work is a bit scratchy, but it isn`t finished yet so I will put up with it until March!!  Tuesday - I was full and brimming over with ideas and continued to work on the candle piece, with more candles and more money.  I`m not totally sure whether this will evolve any further - we`ll see.   I particularly like this composition - reminds me how we burn money sometimes.

I did aquire an ingredient which I believe is essential for my piece and so Wednesday it was added, although to the untrained eye it could just be debris.


It is the smell that takes the mind back to the time of regular church visits.

Candle wax and ...................?


`Lightworks` and the activity table is under discussion - there are several ideas for lanterns and I believe maybe two at the most should be adopted - we hope to be prepared for at least 200 visitors and not to disappoint any of the children who want to take part in the making and colouring of the lanterns.  If we have templates ready it will be possible to cater for all I think.  We hope to have other activities too.  Possibly a shadow play area for the older children.   Personally I would love to get the children making a 3D piece out of paper loops.  A 4ft-5ft Garden cane could be threaded through with loops which could be expanded by the kids who could where possible decorate and add their own length of loops  to the loop curtain. Only Pritt stick glue and felt tips would be needed - we already have till rolls that can be easily cut to size - an art piece in action!!

We`ll have to discuss further at the `LIGHTWORKS` 2012 meeting tomorrow.
Don`t miss it.

A Presto!

degree journal: Countdown`s unlimited!!

degree journal: Countdown`s unlimited!!: There was a half term break for F.E. students this week - hence no buses for college? Higher education must be underfunded!! I managed to ...

Countdown`s unlimited!!

There was a half term break for F.E. students this week - hence no buses for college?
Higher education must be underfunded!!  I managed to get in for three days and work. The ideas are in there - the visuality of them is more difficult.  Trying to think visually!  I was unhappy with the original candle and money piece - so I have adjusted that and from it came more ideas......  just to show enough is the quest ......... so I will not go into depth on the subject.  I have a couple of ideas for a performance piece, and with the help of a fellow student hope to produce a 3 to 5 min film.  Hopefully, the 3D will be available also as I want to start on the third part of my project topic.  However, Berlin is on the horizon and we are all looking forward to it - Art as well!  I have the use of a new camera, and so will be able to supply some great pics for my next blog.  The picture of my candle just as it was started - I want to burn it right through.   Just looking at this image is creating all sorts of feelings - real angry and deep.

Trying not to burn at both ends!

I wont linger with this - as I must be positive for Berlin, and start to get my stuff ready. 

Unfortunately I have a dental appointment tomorrow so will miss yet another day at college. I must say I have been working though.  The Power point is finished, and the activity log and reflection also and 500 word proposal done.  Just have to do the dissertation plan, on what I am not sure yet, maybe Arte Povera - I love the work of Guilio Paulini and Janis Kounellis.

The Lightworks project is still a little in the air!
I have asked two companies for possible bulk prices on illoomballoons or donations!  No reply as yet.  I would like to also create something big with the kids - ideas ideas. 

I have an idea to include a sculpture piece in Lightworks if there is room.  Lets hope I have the time to perfect it.  The plan is to compile my Log Piece with some of the bound books and hang it horizontally with rope.

                         Fino a settimana prossimo mi amici! ciao.

Busy week - Berlin beckons!

This week disappeared into thin air - although the ideas are flowing from the chosen subject matter.  It is a personal journey - backwards and thats sometimes hard to take and indeed admit.  Memories go deep and digging them out is in theory therapeutic, if we can face them.  All sorts of emotions crop up of course and in hindsight sometimes it makes us wonder why they lay dormant for so long.  Anyway, all will take its place in the work I am hoping to produce for the final assessment for this year.  There will be two or three significant installations - hopefully - and a performance piece.  When I can get some pics I will upload to reveal all.  I have also been looking at my work for a power-point presentation, which was not as difficult as I expected, and is now taking form, with regard to the exhibition at Wootton in October 2011.

                                   Happy memories - Cazzie helping set up my work
                                   in the pulpit.

Berlin beckons us and we look forward to the experience with relish.  It will be a small party of us but we have a good relationship altold so it won`t be long now.  I have been reading a little of the art of Germany in the form of Alexandra Birken and Tobias Buche and an artist of my generation Sa Genzken.  All very contemporary in their practice.  I hope to see something to inspire my dissertation plan. 

Lightworks - activity table has been a concern of mine, and so on Friday when Jackie said she would gladly come on board I breathed a sigh, as the sourcing of materials along with another pair of hands relieved the pressure.  Jackie also has some ideas and we hope to be a real success this year, and will keep you all posted.  We hope to still make the lanterns as this was very popular.

Well thats it for now - fino a settimana prossimo - ciao!

degree journal: Clearing the space!

degree journal: Clearing the space!: The titles a little contradictory, but the space in my studio is limited, so more space must be created from somewhere! Past work has been ...

Clearing the space!

The titles a little contradictory, but the space in my studio is limited, so more space must be created from somewhere!  Past work has been collected and re-arrangements made, and its looking better.  The walls are bereft of nails and strings and are shouting for more work to cover them with the message of the new theme.  The theme is personal from way-back when I was a `good girl` and went to church nearly every day.  Why?  thats part of the exploration.  It will be difficult to express my relevant feelings but I am looking forward to trying.  My technical skills will definitely need to be enhanced - but I did do
a film for Lightworks last year - doors - so I will try again to convey my thoughts and feelings with this medium.   Also looking foward to `Lightworks 2012`  and the activity table for the kids!  My essay has been `turned` in and so is despatched to done and dusted.
At the moment I am researching an idea for my dissertation plan to hand in.  Looking at Arte Povera - lots of artists on the list but have not decided where to dive in with this.
Perhaps Guilio Paolini, ma non prendere una decisione ancora.  Mi dispiace - I`m sorry to drift into the Italian - it just seems to match the movement somewhat.
I will hopefully have more to say soon - with pictures also - until then, ciao.

degree journal: new beginnings!!

degree journal: new beginnings!!: Its been sooooo long away from the scene - it seems blogs away! Well, what a week - we had feedback and thats all taken in and digested fin...

new beginnings!!

Its been sooooo long away from the scene - it seems blogs away!
Well, what a week - we had feedback and thats all taken in and digested finally. Decisions have been made to re-track and be ambitious.  Studios spaces are pretty bare at the moment, but I`m sure it wont last long like that.  Two good speakers this week were Neo Heny and Paul Collinson.  Both were very different in their approach to making a living - and thats not a bad thing - we need diversity.  The honesty displayed was really refreshing also; no big talk, no hiding the calamities - this was good audience captivation.  I particularly like Neo Heny`s work strategies - her dipping in and out of roles, and getting to know where the money is and how to get it!!!  Her work is a real asset to the people who havent experienced simple playtime activities - that I personally remember - being of the age before children became guarded to the extreme, and it had me thinking I would love to do that, and be truly useful in a position of trust. 

Lightworks was again chewed over at our small class meeting on Friday - it looks as though entries of film clips etc are rolling in.  A bit iffy for the childrens activity table - getting some enthusiasm going is the thing. If all else fails, I`ll set something similar to
last years lantern pod up with some mask making possibly, and badge kits. All ideas will be considered - if there are any out there - let me have them. PLEASE.
Caio for now.