Babybird Walk Through.
After all the stress and exhilaration, a sense of calm settles over the gallery, and the following day offers us an opportunity to enjoy the show together as a group.
Anna Bunting-Branch organised a Critical Reflection Salon at the end of April, inviting students to gather ideas for the Summer Show and discuss ways to make it an informative experience. The steering committee arranged the Babybird Walkthrough, inviting two gallerists to view the exhibition and give feedback. This was called a Baby Bird Walkthrough.
It was fascinating to not only walk through sculpture, drawing, and painting, but also to be surprised by the computational arts: movement, light, and lots of sound. I could have explored this area further, but time was limited due to the extensive work to cover.
It was also interesting to hear what the gallerists Pippa and Nick had to say. (I can’t recall their full names!)
Generally, they commented on how the show met a high standard and covered multiple themes expected at this level. Ideas of family, belonging, touch, and sense appeared throughout the show, submitted by various students. They noted that, as galleries, they observe students emerging from a period of exploring these significant themes. Now is a time when artists can begin to move beyond the egocentric and engage with the wider world. They prefer to represent artists who have been ‘out’ of college for a few years.
Fascinating! I found the idea that these themes are universal and not limited to Camberwell compelling. There is much to consider.
When we reached printmaking, I was asked to give an impromptu talk about my work. I’m not usually comfortable with sudden requests, but it felt as if I had lived and breathed my art for so long that talking about it came naturally. I felt completely at one with my work!
I was pleased that Jirapak had recorded this for me. The clip is available in the documentation section. Sometimes when my confidence wavers, I find this clip and listen to myself. It is personally empowering.