As someone who loves research… having a week in Phoenix Arts Studios in central Brighton was a fantastic opportunity for me to explore my creative and independent practice on a deeper, experimental level.
I don’t often get to create work on a solo basis, and often my neurodiversity means I am very hesitant about making artwork… preferring to work with people and collaborate in groups as oppose to individual artistic and creative practice.
This week I challenged my own preconceptions of what it is to be an artist, and a Neurodiverse artist to a greater extent. I came into the space with no preconceived ideas about my practice, or what I would create in the studio.
Me, materials and my imagination.
I think visuals speak for themselves in some ways, so there is limited commentary about my artwork here: just a caption contains a few words that arose during the creative process.
What have I learnt about myself and my independent practice?
I don’t have to be able to create finished pieces of art in a quick amount of time… waiting and patience is a golden ticket to my creative practice.
I can make art. My disability and mental health and lack of self confidence don’t have to stop me from being creative.
I may not always get the end product right, but it matters that I tried, and I enjoy myself through the making and doing process.
Go with the flow…. seriously… this helped me a lot when thinking about how I perceive myself as an artist. Just let goof any judgements about my abilities and be free to relate without putting boundaries and barriers in place.
‘Weird’ art is good. It sparks conversation, investigation, discovery and spontaneity amongst people.
The body is the greatest tool we have, as everyone has one. In all different and varied forms, we can use our bodies to create art together.
Mannequins are great tools especially for those who have anxiety or low self confidence. It’s a chance to use a wooden figure as a representation of themselves. Also as a solo artist during coronavirus… mannequins are the ultimate socially distanced subject to light, warp, distort and work with.
Creative freedom is necessary. To let go, to live, to make, to explore. Simply wonderful.
