Greetings from New Smyrna, Florida!
I'm currently an Associate Artist-in-Residence at the Atlantic Center for the Arts in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
I was selected along with 8 other visual artists as part of a residency led by Master Artist Rick Lowe.
For 3 weeks (May 16th - June 5th) I will be concentrating on my new work and projects, sorting through my research and archival materials, and learning from the group.
This residency is focused on issues surrounding the built environment, and social practice/community based work. I am learning how to discuss some of my new projects in this context.
During the first week, we each presented to the larger group of residents (concurrently there is a residency for writers led by Thomas Sayers Ellis, and musicians led by Matthew Shipp), and then delved into much more detailed discussions/critiques to our fellow visual artists-in-residence. We have also visited several sites within the local community including historic buildings, heritage museums, and existing creative initiatives addressing social issues in New Smyrna Beach.
I drove for 17 hours straight *whew* from Houston to reach this artist community, nestled by a bay, 6 miles from the Atlantic coast line. I bike to the beaches almost daily. ACA is in a wooded area and is designed to be a retreat experience. I am treated to 3 chef-prepared meals a day, private room, board and bathroom, and a wide range of studio spaces and resource rooms to work, research, and exhibit in. I was also the recipient of tuition aid. This is a true privilege and for the first time this year, I have the clarity to immerse myself in my new research and ideas.
0 comments:
Post a Comment