Evaluation

Evaluation
Reflecting upon this semester and doing this module of Arts management for pioneers, I have a found it quite interesting to learn about more fine art approaches to creativity. I have got involved with and visited a variety of artists and galleries whilst learning about audiences and curation. The visit to Towner gallery was one of the highlights as it was an extremely innovative building with local contemporary work from a variety of artists. The attraction of a multitude of audiences is interesting to see how different individuals may view the gallery. Especially with a strong focus on learning programmes.

I feel like I am able to interact with a broader range of individuals with different course backgrounds. But also with artists and curators by asking the right question in order to get my initial questions answered in relation to placement. As a fashion communication student I initially want to link the questions from this module to the communications/ media side of my course. My initial questions were ‘If possible would you consider expanding onto social media platforms as a form of advertising and showcasing previous festival performances?’ and ‘what was the overall image or theme five short blasts wanted to communicate to the audience?’ These questions would of been interesting to ask the coordinators as it would of given me an insight as to why they don’t target a larger audience which social media could provide them with. If this was the case they potentially would of benefitted with selling nearer to 1500 tickets instead of 1100.

However I thought it was necessary to change them when the hiccup with placement time and dates occurred as I really struggled with finding the time to fit in the with the placement at five short blasts. This was a big shame as the placement scheme was the part which attracted me in choosing this particular module. Therefore I was only able to be part of the audience for my placement at five short blasts, which was interesting to see the audiences attitude and response before and after the performance. Especially as us audiences are cast to sea where we were able to experience the pre-recorded sound pieces and voices in a peaceful environment that allows us to really connect with the performance. After speaking to a couple of passengers and attending the performance myself we felt that the atmosphere was extremely reflective and meditative.

By gallery interaction with local artists aids the local community to get involved which if they’re aware the art work is locally source and has direct meaning with there local area. Relating this back to five short blasts, this is a good example of why they wanted the performance to be initially based in shoreham, as this was where the stories were set and the individuals voices came from. Therefore by Shoreham having high tide meant the waters were too choppy for a boat to travel on making it a major healthy and safety issue. This worried the artists as they were very conscious the audience wouldn’t receive the initial experience as they expected.

As Brighton festival is such a large organisation with lots of different performances and events taking place. It was interesting to hear the feedback from the placement participated in due to false information given to them before. Although there were many drawbacks, five short blasts knew that it was vital for them to overcome the hiccups and perform to there audiences in the best way possible.

Comparing this to for the birds, they’re both out door events in urban areas has lead to many un predictable drawbacks. Through these placements I have realised that despite how much planning and preparing you can do, when relying on an outdoor space you have got to be prepared for the worst to happen. And when it does you need to respond quickly because you have the public relying on you.
As my degree is focused on communication it hs been refreshing to realise that the galleries and organisations we have met with are actively trying to integrate with conversations with the industry. Similarly fashion communication is the showcasing of an image with a clear and intentional perception to the viewer.

Towner Gallery – 21/02/2017

Reflecting upon the visit to the Towner gallery, left me feeling a lot more motivated with attending seminars to this module. I found this visit really interesting and it provided me with greater understanding on the sort of programmes some gallery run and why they do it.

Letter to Self – 17/02/2017

After reflecting upon the De La Warr visit we were asked to write a letter to ourselves about what we expect to achieve from this module and an idea of the questions we want answered. After a deep think, I have briefly outlines some elements I would like to find out about. I have considered relevant skills and knowledge that I would like to expand within the creative industry. I wrote this on a scrap piece of paper which was handed in on the day of the visit.

De La Warr Visit – 14/02/2017

Reflecting back on the De La Warr visit it was very informative on the history and running of the gallery. I learnt how the arts and culture is demonstrated through artists work to signify a message and the ways this is done. On the way to the bexhill visit we were discussing our thoughts on the questions we had to answer from visiting the gallery website.

We turned up to the gallery and got led into one of the meeting rooms by two ladies whom were the head of learning and head of exhibitions but also artists themselves. We all went through the process of reintroducing ourselves to the group and artists which was a lot less cringe worthing in comparison to the module introduction. We then discussed the module as a whole and why each individual has chosen arts management for pioneers. This was quite interesting as the answers were very diverse and ranged from learning about curating, to alternate routes to if there career doesn’t go to plan, to wanted to participate in a placement and learn new skills to hopefully inform there final year.

After our discussion the two representers of De La Warr directly told us about the concept and importance of the gallery but also there roles and responsibilities within it. De La Warr emphasises upon collaboration as they stress this is a vital part in order for exhibitions, spaces e.t.c. to be a powerful and reflective experience for audiences. This also relates to an interdisciplinary approach program of collating multiple peoples knowledge to discuss, improve and expand the gallery. One of the gallery aims is to attract a wider audience therefore De La Warr are trying to bring in exhibitions that focus on diversity and the interaction of a larger demographic. A variety of topics were discussed as to how this could be done. Nottingham contemporary gallery came up as they explored diversity by only allowing black artists to display there work as there work signified the black arts movement from the 80s.

As the gallery appeals to audiences for many purposes, De La Warrs main aim is for art to be displayed throughout. An example of this is by the cafe being worked on to have more of a studio feeling, therefore artists are being commissioned to produce artwork on the walls. Therefore this should hopefully aid a larger interest of the individuals who only come to the gallery for there coffee. After noting the footfall, they came to realisation that the individuals were of the older generations. Therefore by producing artwork it may entice the to actually explore and take an interest in the gallery, artwork and exhibitions present.

After our discussion we then braked for lunch and were able to explore the gallery and exhibitions present. I went into two exhibitions; ‘In a dream you saw a way to survive and you were full of joy’ by Elizabeth Price and ‘Sussex modernism retreat and rebellion’. I found the first exhibition quite interesting as it explored the psychological process your brain takes in process of a dream. This was translated through paintings, drawings, sculpture, photos and film. It explored different states of emotion your body undertakes whilst asleep.

I was only able to briefly go around ‘Sussex modernism retreat and rebellion’ as I got asked to leave for drinking coffee. But this exhibition was quite interesting as it explored how individuals from the quaint villages of sussex explored modernism in an innovative way. I am usually not too keen on the aesthetic of modernism however I find the concept behind the pieces quite interesting.

After lunch we met as a group to do a quick workshop before returning to Brighton. We split into groups and were all provided with mission statements from a particular organisation exploring a form of arts. By unpicking the statement given we were able to identify there qualities, approaches and target demographic. The idea of this task is for us to be aware of what needs to be considered when choosing our placement and if there qualities and aims can relate to our selected questions we want to be answered. We all then discussed the organisations we were given as a group and discussed the similarities and differences of each statement and company.

Introduction to Arts management for Pioneers – 07/02/2017

Arts management for pioneers is communicating with a multitude of individuals within the creative and cultural sector. In the first session we met everyone who is part of the group, collectively discussed the module and what it was about. This was helpful as it provided a bigger picture of what we are doing for the next couple of month. I primarily took this module as it included a placement which I hoped would allow me to explore different aspects of the arts sector.

As a fashion communications student I hope this will expand my knowledge in curation and professional practices.
To start off we had to introduce ourselves and attempt to remember everybody’s names. After the main discussion we split off into smaller groups to discuss a couple of questions which explored the definitions of culture, creativity and cultural aspects within arts. It was interesting to see other peoples opinions and how they value these these factors which are frequently faced and demonstrated in the arts.

For the upcoming two weeks we have trips planned focusing to different gallery’s to discuss and learn about arts management. Next Tuesday we will be visiting De La Warr gallery; we have been giving a variety of questions to research and explore before we journey off to the gallery. This was proven very useful for me as I have never heard of the gallery before therefore I have collated lots of useful information to prep me for the trip.

What is its mission? What does it aim to do?
De La Warr focus’ primarily on there artists and audiences whilst trying to reflect a strong cultural understanding of major worldwide topics. The contemporary gallery reflects innovation through new ideas and work led across all ages. Through seeking diversity allows variation in artist programmes but also enables growing fundraising and commercial activity. In order to conserve the pavilion, the architectural fabrics have been conserved although the layout and design of the building is very open. Part of the aim is to be a catalyst for culture, economic, tourism and social Regeneration of bexhill.

What is its history? Why did it come into being?
Initially De La Warr opened as a pavilion in 1935 to critical and popular acclaim and controversy. In 2003 the building closed as enough funding was gathered to refurbish the building. In October 2005 the building reopened as a centre for contemporary arts.

Where and when does its artistic activity happen? What does it do?
The gallery currently has three main studios which artists are able to exhibit there work for a fee. The areas seem very spacious which is ideal for artists to translate a mood and feel for there work. Also there is a large space outside which is available to show work.

Who are its audiences? Where do they come from?
The gallery has had over 400,00 individuals visiting the gallery, with 52,000 purchasing tickets for events; such as comedy, music, live broadcast e.t.c. These statistics are displayed on the website. Another 6000 individuals have taken part in the learning programmes too. As the gallery is in Bexhill, means it is slightly further out for a high tourist footfall.

What type of organisation is it? Where do they get their funding for it to run?
As De La Warr became a charity in 2002, they now have funders who contribute to the running of the gallery, these consist of the national portfolio organisation , Arts council England and Rother District council. These primarily support them with large funds however it is still not enough to keep up with the overall management. Therefore some exhibitions have a fee and memberships are available to those who visit the gallery a lot allowing them to visit any exhibition.

How does it embody and transmit some of the characteristics of ‘creativity’ we discussed?
De La Warr show strong characteristics of creativity and innovation through artists and exhibitions. There aim is to involve the public in creating art.

How does it impact (if at all) the cultures we discussed?
From what I gather the De La Warr is trying to expand there cultural awareness by strongly diversifying the artists and audiences.
I think the gallery may struggle to have a large cultural impact as it is slightly far out from the main tourist spot (Brighton). Due to limitations in funding results into minimal advertising in place.