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Future Forward 1 - A framework for development and changeAn article by June Hill mentor to Karina Thompson on the Future Forward 1 mentoring programme.
Karina Thompson approached Future Forward 1 (FF1) at a pivotal point in her career as a maker – having recently begun to experiment with different textile forms and processes, inspired by a series of digitally stitched commissions for Cure Leukemia. Admitting to being ‘obsessed’ by this process and excited by its potential, Karina was looking for new contexts for her work that would enable her to extend her practice.
The use of cutting edge textile technology to express complex scientific data seemed central to the next phase of Karina’s practice. So, we arranged a series of research visits that would explore this subject from different angles. The aim was to build up a picture of work being done in the field and to identify options for her to develop her particular practice.
We began with a slight aside: by examining the curator’s perspective on contemporary craft. Invited to Ruthin Craft Centre for the launch of the Rozanne Hawksley exhibition, we were able to meet resident artists, view the studio and retail facilities and then talk through the curation of the exhibition itself. Curators have a big say in the exhibition and presentation of work, so this was a valuable insight into the concerns they have and the opportunities they can provide for craft practitioners.
This was followed by two visits directly related to Karina’s new work. Conversations with Melanie Miller (MA Route Leader, Manchester Metropolitan University) focused on current practice in machine embroidery. What technology is available, how is it being used and where can it be accessed? What opportunities are there for creative collaborations in the University and beyond?
Linda Schwab (Lead Artist, Bexley Wing Project, Yorkshire Cancer Centre) then talked us through her experience of a major arts commissioning project for a new hospital. Most of the artworks were textile/craft pieces and she discussed the particular benefits these brought to a clinical environment. We were able to see how different artists had approached the brief and learn about the issues raised during the project. How do you commission work for a building still under construction? Where do you get the funding? What about patient consultation? Are there opportunities for artists to work alongside medical staff? How do the clinical needs affect the art works -what about cleaning, infection control and the visitors physical and emotional well being?
Whilst no direct opportunities came from these visits, each has been important in confirming the direction of Karina’s practice and the place it can occupy within the field. Future Forward 1 has provided a framework in which it has been possible to explore options, acquire knowledge and build networks. This is informing the current and future development of her work.
Quote from Karina Thompson textile artist and mentee on the Future Forward 1 mentoring programme:
‘Future Forward 1 has helped me understand the value of reflection within my practice. As a maker I am used to being reactive; seeing an opportunity and trying to go for it. I now see the importance of considering whether the opportunity is right for my long term plans. My mentor has helped me be more proactive in my future career path. I feel I am planning my own opportunities rather than reacting to other people’s ideas. It’s scary but it’s the only way that I can change things within my practice.
Being with a mentor has given me the confidence to apply for projects in a thoughtful manner. In the future, I am looking to build on approaching contacts I have already made to help me move my practice forward.’
http://www.lindaschwab.com/index.php?/consultancy/bexley-wing/ www.contextandcollaboration.com/ http://www.artdes.mmu.ac.uk/embroidery/ www.transitionandinfluence.com
All images courtesy of Karina Thompson |
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