These images are from the exhibition ‘Right here-Right now’, currently in situ at Kinghurst Art Space. The work is the culmination of six months as Artist in Residence; time spent talking with, and listening to local people, devising projects for community participation and challenging myself to work in unfamiliar ways.

The support, rapport and working relationship with Aimee Green, the Arts Development Officer from Solihull Arts Complex who initiated the Kingshurst Arts Space project, along with Claire Hickey, the project Co-ordinator, has been rich and rewarding on many levels.

As an artist working in a satellite situation ( the Arts Space is in the North area of Solihull, some miles from Solihull Arts Complex) it was essential to be self-sufficient with regard to materials, working practises and technology. However, technical support was available from the Gallery, albeit to be pre booked and with a time delay. I was able to discuss ideas freely with Aimee and Claire and had sufficient space and time to explore new ways (for me) of interacting with the public. Interim projects were ongoing, such as the collection of portraits and stories, histories and memories of the area and its people.The ‘hide and seek’ of toy soldiers around the local vicinity created ripples of interest in the Arts Space, with the toys being returned for a ‘reward’ as adults and children alike took part in the activity.

The box in the exhibition is a repository for the events and ideas which were produced during my time in the Space, the large portraits with embroidered remarks about life in Kingshurst are an optimistic reminder of the community. Statistics gathered about the area during initial research, are reiterated in various forms such as ’47’ the handmade book, and are to be found on the shoes and in the wall mounted information display. The acetate book comprises the images from which the embroidered portraits were made.

Having been given the rare opportunity to develop a body of ‘unknown’ work has taken a leap of faith on the part of Aimee Green, for which I would like to thank her with deep gratitude, as well as Claire, for her continued support.

THERE WILL BE A CELEBRATION EVENT TAKING PLACE AT KINGSHURST ARTSPACE
THURSDAY 29 MARCH 2012
5PM-6.30PM
I WILL BE GIVING A SHORT TALK ABOUT THE RESIDENCY FROM 6.30PM. ALL WELCOME.

Open Day at Kingshurst Art Space-Saturday 5 November 2011