Sea to Source – a new project!

At this point, I want to further develop my practice to strengthen connections
with my community & local landscape (within North Devon’s UNESCO
Biosphere), enhance the socially engaged aspects of my practice through new
professional relationships, and develop new opportunities for international
connection via the themes of water, rivers & seas. This step-change will lead to
new possibilities to develop multi-partner projects & sustained opportunities for
paid work in my local area.

THIS IS THE PLAN – I WILL FIND OUT IF I HAVE BEEN SUCCESSFUL March 2024. I am keen to access any funding opportunities.

Over 12 months, I’ll create a new body of artwork based on the River
Torridge from sea to source – considering contemporary, historical and
archeological records, and allowing seasonal change, weather and activity to
influence my making. To do this, I’ll spend time weekly on-site at the river –
using eco-prints, drawing, photos and conversation with passers-by to record
the water, flora and fauna, pollutants, and human/animal life. These visual
notes/ideas will then be further worked up (in my studio) to produce new and
significant works to share and exhibit (locally & internationally).
To support this, I will:
Grow my relationship with Burton at Bideford – exploring the Permanent
Collection (inc research on Sheila Hutchinson’s 1950s watercolour series From
Source to Sea & Richard Gregory’s 2021 film) and meeting with Burton Art
Gallery & Museum Staff.
Undertake first-hand research of JMW Turner’s North Devon sketchbooks &
paintings (TATE Britain Collection)
Explore the river’s folk tales & archaeological records
Meet with & learn from local foragers & fishermen
Develop new relationships with stakeholder orgs inc Devon Wildlife Trust, RHS
Rosemoor, Surfers Against Sewage, Plymouth University, The Resurgence
Trust, Wings SW
Blog & share work-in-progress online
Develop relationship with WaterWalks (Ludwig collective – Rotterdam, NL) &
Collect Art (Tbilisi, Georgia) with support from Plough Arts Centre
Mentoring with Phil Parker & Hilary Beecroft (Founders of Artmakers UK)