Mapping New Territory

Lorna Crane ... Visual Arts

7 April - 2 May 2003

Lorna Crane is a professional artist and a highly skilled facilitator working from a grassroots community arts philosophy. For the past 12 years she has been the Arts Co-ordinator of an inclusive arts community based at Belconnen Community Centre in Canberra to provide pathways for people with mental health issues to be more involved with mainstream activities. This is now a role model program both within Australia and abroad. She was awarded the Sir William Keys Churchill Fellow 2002, researching community arts programs in the USA, Canada and UK.

Pre-Residency

After the initial contact with CASA and confirmation of the residency I was informed that there had been a delay after Jack Nicholas had resigned. Interviews were in place for the new project manager and I would have more details as they took shape.

Veronica Calarco was selected as this new manager. Fortunately for me I had known Veronica from the community arts network in Canberra and the regional arts scene in Belconnen on a past project which eased the process of this first residency. As Veronica had stated to me on our initial discussions about the project and that ‘I would be her guinea pig’ to set the scene for the future arts residencies – little did I know how true this would be.

There was a rush for information in these weeks beforehand. With little time building up for the residency and with Veronica just having four weeks to prepare for my arrival there was a frenzy of preparation for the event. Within the first week it was suggested that an exhibition of my work as an artist could be a good way to not only introduce me but to launch Mapping New Territory. It would give people the opportunity to view my work quite separate from that as a community worker. The work was about to start.

Preparation

Exhibition: preparation involved deciding which works to exhibit, writing artist statement, scanning and emailing images (using V&V Graphic’s assistance) and updating resume.

Artists Talks: prepare a list of suggested talks to be delivered to the community and consider presentation of these talks and equipment that will be needed to be considered eg. slide or overhead presentation

Artists Workshops: Prepare the series of workshops that may be considered for the residency – these include drawing, painting, stamping, shibori and patchwork.

Drawing – based on still life exercises exploring a variety of mediums
Painting – exploring colour mixing with acrylic paint based on the theme of the surrounding landscape
Stamping – using found objects and hand carved polystyrene stamps as well as hand painted design
Shibori – explore the age old technique of tie-dying with inexpensive mediums
Patchwork – a basic approach of using simple hand sewing techniques with pre-loved fabrics. For the beginner or the more advanced.

Supplies

A materials list was presented as a suggestion for the workshops. Veronica then explained that there was no money in the budget set aside for materials which made it difficult to prepare for such a broad range of visual art activity. Another factor was the difficulty in obtaining affordable art supplies in Alice Springs. It was suggested to purchase the supplies in Canberra, after a discussion about the Art School Supply Shop. We narrowed down the materials just to essentials to drawing and painting and I would donate some of the supplies for fabric surface decoration. Consideration was allowed for suitability of supplies for on-going arts projects.

The difficulty was bringing these supplies with me to Alice Springs along with my exhibition pieces as part of my luggage. This left little room for personal baggage.

Supplies were purchased from the Art School Supply Shop, The Art Store and Clints Warehouse.

Diary of Events

Monday 7th April

Introduction to the staff and orientation at CASA office.
Meet mentoree, Susie Ciavatta.
Set up exhibition at Watch This Space in George Crescent. I was confronted with a huge space as well as brick walls to try to hang textile pieces and works on paper. The challenges of hanging a show soon emerged and included the placing of large wall plinths with an uneven floor as well as hanging works from the ceiling.
Meet with Iain Campbell who was to open the exhibition and to speak to him about the works first hand. He had taken care with reading the CV and relating to the works that were in the process of being installed.
Susie came down with a gastric virus and had to leave late in the afternoon.
Tried to work out the best way to hang the large quilts from the ceiling then called it a day. Coming from cooler Canberra meant that I was feeling the heat of Alice Springs and the energy levels were depleted

Tuesday 8th April

Pick up at 8am to hang the quilts at the gallery.
Re-locate one set of work.
Place numbers under works on walls.
Position tables for food and drinks for opening.
Complete list of works for catalogue on laptop in word.
Back to office to print list of works and prepare information flyers that have details about Mapping New Territory as well as review the workshops and talks program.
Assist with the protocol required for the speech that Pat Miller will present to launch Mapping New Territory.
Iain Campbell called in to CASA to check details regarding opening speech and order of events.
Fold workshop flyers with volunteers.
Concern about preparation for tomorrow’s Stamping workshop with limitations on budget and getting the time today to source appropriate materials for use ie: polystyrene, fabric, foam rollers, cutting tools and under blankets for pressing stamps.
Leave office at 4pm to pick up supplies of fabric offcuts and blankets from Saltbush Second Hand Traders.
Back to apartment for a quick shower and change of clothes to prepare for opening and launch.
Back to gallery and the panic that’s sets in before an opening to help prepare for the official launch. This is just the stuff of an art exhibition opening.
Approximately 50 people at opening which was a good turn up with such a short lead up to the event as well as an opening on a Tuesday night.
Met some interesting artists, community workers and prospective participants of the forthcoming workshops.
Clean up and depart for the apartment at 9.30pm exhausted.

Wednesday 9th April

Pick up at 8am to prepare Watch This Space for the first workshop.
Arrive at 8.15am to find George Cres cordoned off with red and white tape, Police cars, media and a Crime Scene Investigation. Seeking an answer to what was happening we discovered that a murder had taken place in ‘the wee small hours of the morning’. Sometime between us leaving the gallery and 1am. After discussion with Police and a few phone calls to CASA we decided that it was best to cancel the workshop as they were still trying to find the murder weapon. The Fire Brigade were on their way to clean the murder scene. This left a bitter taste and was rather unsettling. We waited till after 9am to guide workshop participants away from the site then headed into town for a coffee to calm down.
Headed back to CASA with Veronica to de-brief with staff. Decided that we should plan for the stamping workshop to be forwarded to tomorrow afternoon due to the cancellation today.
Sorted out workshop timetable and issues surrounding materials payment.
Approach Big O Hardware store for wood offcuts for stamping workshop. The manager sat next to me on the plane from Canberra to Sydney and donated these.
Returned to apartment late afternoon to prepare wood pieces, pack car as well as sample some polystyrene pieces onto fabric

Thursday 10th April

Another early start to set up for the first workshop
Good to see Susie on board again and eager to commence
Morning activity included preparation of space, tables, mats, sanding wood blocks and discuss with Susie the plan for the day
Consultation session with artists Mardijah, Maureen MacIntyre, Deborah Clark and Susie with information exchange and questioning including advice about potential arts projects in Alice Springs.
Mardijah has a good grasp of local arts knowledge and history as well as having lived in the area for many years. After the consultation had ended I gave her a quick introduction into a fabric collage and she decided to stay for the Stamping workshop in the afternoon along with Maureen.
Stamp Workshop – afternoon session. 10 participants including support workers.
This was a workshop with a broad level of skill levels ranging from experienced artists to people with a low to moderate level of ability. This made it difficult at times to spread oneself around and give time evenly. It was interesting to watch the dynamics of the inclusive nature of this group with such diverse abilities. It was good to see that Susie was able to adapt where needed and follow the flow of this group and step in.
Process included making an individual designed stamp from a piece of polystyrene using a thick nail to gouge an image. Some used a Stanley knife to shape the stamp with assistance where necessary. The ease in producing an image emerged quite early and the ink up commenced with water based fabric paint. This was a bit messy but a rhythm soon was established with co-operation among the group. It was at this stage that I longed for my own art room where I had just taken for granted things like aprons, towels and the simple supplies that I would normally have on hand in such a space.
Most people by the end of the session had made stamps and had printed onto paper and fabric.
With the ranges of abilities you could see who could manage working in a more inclusive setting without too much assistance. The others would benefit from a smaller group with more support. The positive from this workshop was watching the participants with high ability helping and working alongside those with lower ability. A large array of work was stamped onto fabric and paper.
Lay out work on table to view for the artists talk at WTS for Saturday. All hands on deck for clean up and pack up of car.
Unpack car, swim and then de-brief with Veronica in the evening for a few hours.

Friday 11th April

Re-pack car.
Drawing at Museum and Gallery in the Cultural Precinct
Big O Hardware for cut up of drawing boards to fit size of paper – these were donated to Mapping New Territory.
Greeted by enthusiastic and helpful staff at Museum and Gallery.
6 participants including support workers.
A much easier group, with a more even range of abilities.
Great to work in the space and draw inspiration from the displays.
Each person was drawn to a particular display after a tour of the space and a discussion about the drawing as a medium.
The responses varied from a fascination for the colours, patterns and textures of rocks, to more expressive abstract responses with a design approach, to an interest in the animals on display.
One participant worked with little assistance and the drawing was highly developed and carefully considered as a representational response to the object and animals on display. This participant would clearly benefit from a higher level of ability class and group in the future.
The most abstract response was achieved with assistance from support worker after much encouragement. The circular pencil drawings were achieved in short spurts and the interest span was limited.
An interest in the animals on display ended up in an interesting drawing of rabbits, feral cats and birds. This was a playful response to the display with assistance from the support worker.
A late arrival found it difficult to get started. This participant was not interested in the tour but just belonging to the group that had already commenced work. The response was a series of delightful drawings with a design type approach to the rocks on display.
Susie and I were left with the group for a short while whilst the support workers went outside for a short time. The change in the dynamics became apparent quickly with a more ‘artist to tutor’ quality happening with this change in situation. It was clear to Susie that this was apparent and she was keen to discuss this change after the class. We spoke about firstly getting to know the individual and learning from each experience.
Change over of car meaning another re-pack and un-pack of vehicle after the drop off to CASA worker.
Drop off to apartment then clean up ready for opening of the Craft Acquisition at the Araluen Centre.

Saturday 12th April

Preparation work on fabric and patchwork samples for the coming week.
Artists Talk at Watch This Space – six people attended
Take down exhibition and clean gallery, then pack car
Purchase supplies for Shibori workshop at Territory Craft. Sample shibori pieces with Parisienne Essence.
Re-pack car for next workshop – the Mobile Art Studio.

Sunday 13th April

Journal writing – commence writing up as a diary format. I had decided to work in this manner as I had worked this way during my Churchill Fellowship and found it a good way to reflect on events and think through the process of the residency.
Painting Workshop – Garden Room. 7 participants including support workers. Arrive early to set up workshop
This venue was inappropriate for a painting class with carpeted floor and fabric covered chairs.
Inspiration arose from the surrounding landscape outside the Garden Room with the courtyard of beautiful Peppercorn trees. Drawings were developed in pencil. The more able worked outside to develop the drawing whilst others worked on a table set up to view the courtyard from inside the room. This was the choice of the support worker with concerns for one person that may wander off. I felt that this divided the group as abled and disabled making it difficult to form a connection. Susie worked with the more abled whilst I assisted with the group with limited ability.
This issue becomes a problem with an inclusive group. The more abled that come to these type of classes have less attention and tend to struggle in the beginning. The less abled tend to have a considerable time spent with each person then want to finish early. This balances out in the long run but is hard in the beginning.
Susie and I worked between each group after a period of time. Each group having their own dynamic.
Take photographs and then clean up, pack car and make sure room is all locked.
Purchase 100% cotton sheet from K-Mart for Shibori tomorrow.
Once back at the apartment unpack then prepare samples of shibori with three variations of staining – coffee, tea and Parisian essence.

Monday 14th April

Pick up Veronica at CASA then drop off to Territory Craft for the next workshop – unpack and set up room.
Shibori – Morning session with 5 participants. The workshop started as a consultancy session with 3 artists then late arrival with support worker.
Process included instruction and explanation of tie-dying including the use of rubber bands, cotton and string forming bundle like packages ready to be dipped into the prepared pots of stain.
Steeped bucket of tea as well as bucket of Parisienne essence to compare shades and differences. Parisienne essence was the favoured pot to dip fabric into.
This group of artists were well under way and deep into conversation when the late arrival appeared. This made it difficult for this participant and also changed the energy within the group. It’s hard to start over again mid stream and deal with another level of ability. Although this can be challenging it is a good opportunity for Susie to be faced with this experience and question the actions that needed to be taken.
Great to watch each piece unwrapped to view the effect of this technique.
Shibori - Afternoon session with 9 participants including support workers. Great to see two male support workers get really immersed into the experience with enthusiasm and interest.
This group eager to explore the technique and to get started having seen some of the work produced during the morning.
Another late arrival found it difficult to adapt to the group that had already commenced working. Again another example of not fitting in and feeling uncomfortable with this different place, different workers and a new activity.
Improvisation in wrapping were supported by the support workers where a participant found it difficult to bind with the rubber bands.
One participant had bought along a T-shirt to shibori and was keen to see the effect after immersion into the bucket. On departure there was talk of trying this method out on a calico bag that needed a bit of a revamp.
Susie and I were both delighted at the response to the days workshop. Two participants thanked us by shaking hands and departed much happier than when they had arrived not really knowing what to expect.
Clean and pack up. Easier having access to some storage whilst at Territory Craft.
Afternoon meeting with Michele Castagna at her down town office. This was a really informative meeting. Michele had picked up on some incorrect terms that I had used whilst speaking with Veronica and was wanting to speak to me about the political correctness in these situations. This was also a great opportunity to meet another member of the Project Reference Group for Mapping New Territory.
De-brief with Veronica and Susie after another long day.

Tuesday 15th April

Stamping Workshop – Territory Craft
Morning Session – 5 participants including support workers.
Another big day ahead with the demands of such workshops. There is always a substantial amount of preparation involved with the stamping workshops – considerations made for wheelchair access considered for the printing of the fabric as well as making of the stamps.
The participant that had turned up late yesterday arrived early today. Both Susie and I were interested to see how this person would adapt to this new activity.
This group was diverse but easy to handle with a mix of low to mid ability at the start. This soon changed with one participant just taking to the process immediately (our perceived failure from the day before). Both Susie and I were keen to observe the potential in this new found interest and desire to explore this whole process. There was talk about possibilities of stamping onto T-shirts, bed linen, cushion covers, tablecloths and fabric lengths. This mid ability participant turned into a high ability achiever. From yesterdays withdrawn side ways glances to today’s lifted head and smile was the stuff of making a difference. This change and high level of achievement allowed involvement in a real and meaningful way. With the support workers encouragement this person adapted to this process and explored repeat patterns as well as over printing. The willingness to learn became apparent when we were questioned whether it was okay to stay for the rest of the day.
The low ability participants were encouraged and supported. Whilst one was not really interested at this stage the other found the rolling difficult but the hand painting onto fabric much more fun. Susie and I noticed that this person painted onto the metal surface of the paint tray in a scriffito type manner and enjoyed this approach more so than the task at hand. Lucky for us it was a smaller group and we could adapt and cycle around each person during this morning session.
The fabric we were stamping onto included the shibori pieces from yesterdays class as well as some pre-loved fabric with a print and plain white.
Stamping Workshop – Territory Craft
Afternoon session – 5 participants including support workers
Another even group with some challenges at first with the participant from the morning ready to roll literally. One participant had been to the previous workshop and needed a bit of assistance from Susie with a bit of prompting where the other participant trying this out for the first time decided to be more sculptural rather than the 2 dimension that was being presented. With polystyrene and nails at hand this person was a natural for the sculptural form. With an eager support worker this person was fascinated by the nails ability to pierce the surface with ease making for an interesting object. Susie took the initiative to search for other materials to stick into this shape and picked up some small pieces of twigs from outside. It didn’t stop here though as this participant was also eager to now have a try at the process of stamping. Again we were delighted with the response and the approach to trying this medium. Quick to discover the delight of printing both Susie and myself looked up to find a large printing table full of printed fabric with some amazing designs emerging.
This was a fun afternoon where each person was involved with the process of stamping. It was a day that I describe as full of magic and wonder. As arts workers we were witness to some spectacular work – we both felt that we had made a difference to people’s lives today. Just magic.
Through storytelling and sharing during the day we were able to consider future projects for individuals and group activity. It was also a chance to gain more insight into the likes and dislikes of those involved in this group. By listening and learning ourselves we can consider these wants and needs and turn them into potential arts opportunities – projects that have a purpose and meaning rather than just another arts workshop.
Susie and I were able to de-brief and reflect on the day. This realisation that the second week has proved to be much more comfortable now that we are more familiar with the participants that have engaged in these workshops.
We are both now able to see a clearer bigger picture and see where people fit into this picture. It just takes time sometimes.
Territory Craft has been an ideal place to be situated. The staff have been helpful and friendly but more importantly it is the ideal venue for arts workshops. This is an appropriate arts space that is community focused, functional and has exposure to the broad community including international visitors. With other artists using the facility there are opportunities to develop a dialogue and rapport with continued use of this space.

Wednesday 16th April

Pick up newsletter from CASA along with donated fabric for patchwork from Linda.
Patchwork Workshop – Territory Craft
7 participants including support worker
Good beginning to the session with the group getting off to a good start. After the explanation and showing of samples the idea was suggested to follow the theme of the landscape of the region – particularly the MacDonnell Ranges. With a fabric collage approach to this method of patchwork the group were well under way when there was another late starter. Again another unsettling time to try and engage the participant into the group. Again the group had already formed into a high ability session then the dynamics changed with the late arrival. Trying to adapt to a varied ability mid flight makes for a much bumpier ride. It was quite difficult to then settle back into the rhythm of facilitation with a participant that clearly did not want to join in.
The challenges of working in this mainstream manner in such a short time have been difficult. Particularly with working in unfamiliar surroundings, different tutors, new techniques and getting to know the support structures within the systems and the community.
Encouraged participants to take work home during the week and assisted with needles and threads as needed.
Discuss difficulties during this session and plan for workshop tomorrow during pack up. The experiences during this session have highlighted the way each day and workshop can be different from the previous.
De-brief with Veronica discussing difficulties with late comers and the challenges of working in such a tight time frame.
Artist’s Talk – Garden Room: Sir William Keys Churchill Fellowship 2002. 7 people in attendance. 7pm – 8.30pm. Some interesting questions and good responses to the talk and the experience.
Booked consultancies for next week.

Thursday 17th April

Woke up with the gastric bug and not feeling well at all.
Consultation sessions at Territory Craft
Claire Chenoworth discussed her work as an artist, spiritualist and mystic interpreted in dreamtime images that have emerged through clay sculptural forms. Her desire to find a way to market her work either as postcard images or as a solo artist.
There seems to be a need for more professional development workshops within this community. In particular CV planning and preparation along with artist statements, expressions of interest etc
Meeting with Philomena Hali at the Araluen Centre to talk about her role as an artist in this community. It was great to hear more about Territory Craft along with the history and the way it works.
Cancel afternoon’s workshop due to the gastric bug, pack up space.
Deliver car back to CASA

Friday 18th April

Visit Kuta Tjuta and Uluru at sunset. This was an ideal opportunity to see some of the magnificent landscape of the Central Desert and to be a tourist for a few days.
Saturday 19th April
See Uluru at sunrise, Mutitjulu Waterhole then visit the Cultural Centre before heading to the resort for a coffee. Met one of my BEAN artist from home who persuaded me to visit the artist in residence at Sails in the Desert Hotel. Peter Coad had produced artwork for the movie The Tracker.
Back to Alice Springs

Sunday 20th April

Washing day and catch up with chores around apartment. Office closed all weekend so no change available for washing machines. No public transport available on public holidays.
Report Writing
Consultation with Iain Campbell at his studio with Dougall from the Art Society.

Monday 21st April

Visit West MacDonnell Ranges for day outing with Maureen MacIntyre (workshop participant and visitor from California USA). Really enjoyed the sights like Simpsons Gap, Ochre Pits, Ormiston Gorge and Glen Helen all quite spectacular. This was also the ideal time to question her about her involvement in the project from this inclusive perspective. It was good to hear that she had enjoyed the experience to date and would continue with further workshops next week. Her only concern was some frustration with changes to the timetable. The inclusion with people with broad ranges of abilities was a bit challenging at first but not as off-putting as she had first thought.

Tuesday 22nd April

Pick up from CASA. Purchase more supplies for workshop, Parisienne essence, milk etc
Check prices of rotary cutters and backing fabrics at Polkadot. Rotary cutters too expensive but once I explained about the project the manager gave me one on loan for a week.
Shibori workshop: morning session – Territory Craft (4 participants including support worker).
A small group this morning but good energy and motivation level within this multi-ability group.
Produced over-dyed pieces using pegs, rubber bands and dental floss as resists. Also tested a variety of donated pre-loved fabrics with assorted resist techniques. Four bottles of essence were used this time to give a much deeper shade to the cloth.
Shibori workshop: afternoon session – Territory Craft (3 Participants including support worker)
This session used techniques and devices used in the morning session. With all participants arriving on time it made a huge difference with the inclusive format – each person learning and responding at the same time with a beginning and an end. Some interesting conversations resulted in this situation. A situation with a participant that had previously presented as unsuitable now was much more relaxed in the space and willing to participate in this session. This circle of activity produced some interesting samples using dental floss as the resist. The floss was much easier to handle without having to tie or twist like string or rubber bands. The pegs were also another variation that simplified the process.
A phone call from Christine Absolam (Project Reference Group) meant that I needed the car for a pick up of supplies at 7.30am at Territory Craft with her request for a Stamping Workshop for Acacia Hills School tomorrow.
Consultancy with Nerida at Bindi to see the complex and visit the Art Studio in Elder St. It was great to see a diversity of activity and some interesting colourful works in the studio. Was impressed with the work of Billy Ben and was shown a folder of recent works that are currently on display in Darwin. Explanations about the history and running of the complex gave an insight to how and why Bindi operates in the region.
Consultancy with Sarah Mason late afternoon (5.30 – 7.30pm). Talked about her interests in community arts projects as well as the relevance of her arts practice. After a lengthy and informative exchange about involvement with significant local arts projects and activity we then discussed the role of the arts institutions and the need to have relevant qualifications or experience to work as an artist in the community. She then took me for a quick tour of Anzac Hill for that beautiful 360 degree view around Alice Springs. We later went back to her house to look at some of her artwork and hand drawn cards for some feedback. I suggested promoting her marketable cards to publishers and maybe work in collaboration with some local writers to develop a story along with the images or visa versa. What an exciting and vibrant young person that is inspiring as an artist and with great sensitivity when dealing with people that have a disability. She also has great passion to give back to her local community in many different art forms.
Visited Veronica to tell her about tomorrow class with Acacia Hill School. Had a long de-brief about the day and the interesting people that I have made contact with in the consultancy sessions.

Wednesday 23rd April

Pick up stamping equipment ready for this mornings workshop at Acacia Hills School.
Acacia Hills School Workshop: 8.30 – 10am
10 students, 4 teachers plus Chris and myself.
After this early start with pick up of equipment and set up in the art room outside space it was good to meet and be greeted by Chris with enthusiasm and support. The session commenced with an easy and quite smooth start. After a simple explanation and demonstration of the process the group commenced by making their own polystyrene stamp, Paper, acrylic paint and rollers were distributed around each table and it was quite soon that some prints were starting to emerge. These prints were completed on paper and used acrylic paint. Once I could see that some prints were completed and looking good I then asked each person to bring their stamp to my table to print each work in a repeat for onto some of the shiboried fabric from previous workshops to then have a chance to have these prints included into a completed art piece made by myself in a banner format. Really impressed with the broad range of involved within the group and also the ease in which the group could make their own stamps. A very exciting morning with a motivated and manageable group of young people. All helped to clean in an efficient and well planned approach.
Delighted to be asked back to the staff room for a morning tea of scones, jam and cream. Received good feedback from teachers and discussed project potentials with this stamping process for this group of students along with the staff.
Trip to town to try to locate slide projector for this evenings talk at Garden Room. Library charges $22 a day for this use. Called Watch This Space to ask Ben about being able to borrow theirs but it was locked in someone’s studio. WTS couldn’t assist with projector so back to the Library to hire.
Patchwork Session – Territory Craft. 1-3pm
6 participants along with support worker.
Problems with some smelly wax burning in the gem club area situated next to out workspace where we had been based for the duration of the workshops meant that we had to move to the cleaner textiles art space at Territory Craft. Group well underway excited about the completion of the work they had started last week with a bit of a ‘show and tell’. Yet another late arrival with support worker again making it difficult for this participant to blend into the group. This person was clearly not interested, making it known to all the group. This created a challenge to engage her into to the tasks at hand. After an hour she her support worker decided to take her home. Pack up area.
Pick up slide projector from Library
Prepare talk and order of slides for tonight’s talk. Quick shower and change
Radio interview 8CCC at 6pm with Liza Stephanos – a live to air chat explaining Mapping New Territory, the workshops and the mentorship with Susie Ciavatta. This lasted till 6.45 before flying out the door for the next talk.
Artist’s Talk – Garden Room 7pm. A small but interested group with 5 people in attendance. Talk was based on my experiences as an arts co-ordinator at Chartwell Crafts in the early 1990’s – it’s struggle to become a viable business and then the later success of program set up at Watson Hostel till 1998.
Further chat and discussions at Sean’s bar after another long and exhausting day.

Thursday 24th April

Pick up by Veronica for a 10am meeting as consult at Territory Craft
Consultation session with Susan Graham and Veronica. Spoke about Susan’s role as a dance instructor/facilitator commencing next Monday 28th April. It was a good opportunity to speak with another arts practitioner and consider options for making props for the Thursday evening classes at the Art Shed tonight. Spoke in detail about required fabric lengths that would be appropriate for the dance session – taking in consideration of weight of cloth with movement in mind. It was good to get this feedback for the prep required for the class as well as a clearer picture of her experience and expectations from her workshop.
Consultation session with Nicole (Sport and Recreation Officer from CASA). Spoke about Leisure Program ACT (mental health recreational activity program set in a local community setting) and handed out brochure from this ACT program. We spoke about this program and the long term impact it has had in the community in Canberra and also how it is now well known innovative program that has become a model for ‘Bridges’ – the disability program at Belconnen Community Service to be much more inclusive. Funds through this program were initially sourced from Healthpact – similar to Active Australia funding. Now people with disabilities are included in programs like Belconnen Open Art, Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, Circuit Classes, Lunch Club and many more mainstream activities. We also spoke about the long term benefits from these type of partnerships through shared visions and shared resources.
Cancellation of this afternoon’s class due to only one participant turning up. I took this as an opportunity to share a coffee and chat with participant about her involvement in these workshops, how she felt about the level of teaching and her involvement in this form of inclusion. Realised how hard it had been for this person to adapt in regular arts activity in relation to her mild disability but discovered she had a passion and love of the arts and has realised that this is her group that she would like to be attached with for the future – especially considering her past experiences and present involvement with this project.
Susie and I spent the rest of the afternoon at Territory Craft cleaning and sorting arts space as well as preparing for this evening’s class at the Art Shed. Whilst we had planned a stamping workshop previously Veronica had suggested a shibori workshop instead. This was a result of the discussion with Susan earlier this morning. This meant I then had to pick up more Parisienne Essence from the supermarket. It was also the day before yet another Public Holiday so also needed to consider the preparation for the finished art piece that I would be working on over this time. Purchase cutting board and ruler for ease in construction from Mad Harry’s as well as grocery supplies for apartment. No public transport over public holidays and also no office opening at the apartment.
5.30pm pickup for Veronica and participant for workshop at Crispe St along with a support worker for car change over.
Shibori Workshop – Art Shed 6.30 -8.30pm: 4 participants including support worker.
This was the first of a series of art classes at the Art Shed with support from CAAS (Central Australia Art Society). This was Susie’s first night of teaching tonight with support from Veronica and myself. I found it hard to let go – particularly since we have really been team teaching most of the time due to the complexities and demands of each group. We all enjoyed working in this space and had a fruitful evening creating some great lengths of shiboried works on old sheets. It was good to see Susie take control ( it would have been better if they had shiboried my mouth shut!) and find her own way of facilitation. Dougall at first appeared to be the caretaker of the space and seemed reluctant but quietly interested in this process of integration and inclusion. He was soon put to the test with a request for wood blocks cut to size and a clamp for a more interesting shibori resist. This ended in delight by participants unveiling some spectacular cloth pieces and stunning designs. This is the magic of shibori. All were involved and excited with the results. Each person worked hard in the time and are each keen to explore this technique further. The space was ideal and the support from CAAS was welcomed and appreciated by all involved. This space is a viable alternative to Territory Craft as a suitable project and appropriate arts venue.
Clean up and pack up. Pick up by CASA then another unload before heading out for a quiet drink and de-brief with Veronica and Maureen.

Friday 25th April

A long day of report writing on Veronica’s laptop. Decide on format and commence reading from hand written diary.
7pm dinner around the campfire at Susie’s house meeting more interesting artists getting a clearer perspective of the arts scene of the region. It was also generous of Nerida to share with me some of latest works on board in monotone oil with a hint of the Morandi style.

Saturday 26th April

More word processing on laptop.
Picnic with Sarah Mason and Billy Ben – visiting Clay Pans and Honeymoon Gap for a memorable and relaxing picnic in a dry creek bed then off to Simpson’s Gap. It was just so lovely to listen to the musicality of Billy Ben’s indigenous voice whilst speaking with Sarah and discussing the way the English language has only one way to say ‘hello, how are you’ compared with his language has many ways to say the same thing. Took some great panoramic pictures before running out of film. The background of Honeymoon Gap will be imprinted in my mind. It has fuelled a spark in my creative spirit to explore this Australian landscape.
Dinner at Bluegrass with Veronica and Jennifer Devine (CASA receptionist). Jennifer has offered a loan of sewing machine to complete the banner of fabrics that have been embellished during these workshops.

Sunday 27th April

Strip piece cloth after reviewing designs that include all stamps and shibori methods made during the workshops. Cut to size with rotary cutter on cutting board.
Consultation session – with Christine Absolam in apartment. Nice to have some home made Anzac biscuits with a cuppa and chat as well as a break from the big cut up. We spoke about her desire to broaden her scope and involvement in community arts.
Drop off of sewing machine by Jennifer with demonstration of operation.
Final cutting to size of all selected fabrics. Sample piece of banner design onto felt. This has proved to be a good method of stitching.
Another long day but feeling like I can see light at the end of the tunnel. There has been little time for relaxing whilst here with such a busy timetable. With so many public holidays during this stay the work has been continuous and at times stressful. The challenges have been a reminder about the difficulty in setting up this grass roots initiative.

Monday 28th April

Pick up by Veronica at 9am
Meeting with Project Reference Group at Michele’s office downtown. I was invited to discuss the project and the impact it has had on myself along with the community. I found this meeting and group both stimulating and supportive of the concept.
Report writing catch up on past few days whilst waiting for another consult over coffee.
No show of consult
Purchase 2metres of felt from Polkadot before phoning Veronica for pick up.
Return to apartment to commence stitching the final artwork for display.
Consultation Session with Robyn Manley over Dinner – great chance to hear what Robyn is working on at present and to listen to some of her experiences here in Alice Springs. Her discussion paper sounds like an interesting view for policy makers and planners to shape a healthier community where the arts just happens to be a part of the bigger picture.
Artists Talk – Garden Room: 7- 8.30pm. 8 people in attendance. This talk was titled Making the Journey and described my five year journey of inclusion with the Belconnen Open Art program in Canberra. Some people had to leave early for the dance class at the YMCA. Another interesting session with some stimulating questions after the talk. Handouts of postcards and brochures provided further discussion about potential projects and inclusive participation.

Tuesday 29th April

Pick up early by Veronica to go to CASA first for photocopying and arrangement of transport to Territory Craft by CASA staff.
Day of reflection and planning with Veronica and Susie. Whilst this is happening I am working on the banners with the use of the more appropriate space with layout areas in Territory Craft. This was a time to discuss the events over the residency, the problems faced and the potential for future projects.
Feel like I am running out of time whilst the discussion heats up. I have now realised that there has been little time to de-brief with Susie with the tight timetable and lack of transport and feel like I have let her down with her feedback. A de-brief time should be allocated for the next mentoree at the end of each session.
Meeting with Ian Jamieson from ABC Radio with a request for a pre-recorded interview at the next art workshop at the Art Shed on Thursday evening.
Inspect Witchetty’s at the Araluen Centre whilst considering the launch of the next artist in residence. It will also be a chance to display the works from this residency with photographs, artwork and the completed banners. Susie will be the contact and provide the continuum for the visual arts. It will also provide an appropriate and colourful backdrop describing the project at the launch. We discussed format of photographs and possible display options for this event on May 15th.
Susie and Veronica work on ideas for projects including funding possibilities and connections with arts organisations.
Continue working on completing banner pieces whilst picking up the conversation between Veronica and Susie – butting in where appropriate with information where required. It was great to hear the planning for the future workshops and the practicalities of funding these projects.
Susie explored printing techniques with polystyrene stamps onto paper then fabric for Thursday’s class. It was decided to work with the pieces from last week’s shibori class and cut them down to a small flag shape’s for each individual to design. The intention will be to complete a series of printed flags that could be used as a bunting or hanging flag for use in the promotion of CASART and Mapping New Territory. It will also give a more structured focus with ABC watching and taping for interview.
Plan to come back to Territory Craft on Thursday afternoon for final clean up of Territory Craft and preparation for class at Art Shed.
Clean up space then call CASA for pick up at 4pm. Arrange for pick up by Veronica for tomorrow at 3pm with completed report on laptop hard drive ready for printing tomorrow at CASA.
Drop home then continue working on banners for a further 2 hours before heading out for a well deserved meal with Maureen.
After drop off work on report till 10pm.

Wednesday 29th April

Report writing – complete diary of events then work on summary, statistics and recommendations for the future.
Public Forum at the Garden Room – providing questions and feedback to the community about this residency.

Thursday 30th April

Completion of banners – working on the binding of the banners ready for display.
Clean up at Territory Craft. Prepare for class tonight cutting fabric to size and sorting out equipment needed. Discussed Susie’s role as teacher with Veronica and myself as support.

Recommendations

Visual Arts needs and analysis

Need to develop relationships with all sectors of disability groups rather than just the CASA client base.
Desirable for CASART to be located within an arts based organisation.
Consult with established network of arts spaces that would provide the infrastructure for future art programs or project work eg; Territory Craft and CAAS have been ideal venues that have provide appropriate space with support and assistance where needed.
Liaise with organisations regarding suitability of time for workshops and considerations that would provide the appropriate access, particularly with target groups that may be involved with future projects linking into this more broad based concept of inclusion.
The needs for a Consumer Participation Survey with analysis of the types of arts involvement that people really want to be involved with in the region. This survey could also include issues including transport, affordability and choices of being involved with community events, artists networks or festivals. This is an essential and useful tool of measurement that will add to the future growth of the arts in the region. It validates the wants and needs of the community rather being imposed and hierarchical.
Investigate the potential for a DADA type service and position for Alice Springs for a regional based arts organisation
Develop a broad artists network within Alice Springs – based on the BEAN (Belconnen Entertainment and Artists Network in Canberra) This has proved to be a true source of arts involvement and activity that has grown from strength to strength over the past 5 years. This type of network strengthens and links people to their community – emphasis on the community voice in shaping for the future.
Plan for realistic, achievable projects that have a purpose and meaning in the context of the community.
Know your community and establish a dialogue of communication with all involved with either programs or projects – this includes support workers, carers, volunteers, funding bodies as well as the broad community.
Take small steps before mammoth leaps.
Have fun and enjoy the process that is called community arts. As I have said before ‘this is real art for real people, whatever their ability’. It is a relevant and powerful process that has many layers of meaning to those that participate.
Believe in the knowing that art can make a difference to people’s lives just by sharing through empowering in the creative process.
What is most important and relevant is that a person wants to be part of the arts process not just being imposed upon them as a means as getting that person out of the house. With experience and time the arts worker soon learns to sift those out of programs where people are just not interested in the arts. Sometimes you need to just give people a try first.

Project Ideas

Project ideas include the continuation of Susie to work on ongoing arts projects and to consider working towards mainstream arts projects with Festivals and events within the community.

Individual projects include:

Further exploration of fabric surface design. This could be more stamping and shibori works but a more sophisticated approach after a period of time.
Pizza box pavers with pebbles and coloured concrete. Donations from Pizza Hut could be explored for boxes.
Banner Project – to tie in with Festivals and community events.
Sculpture with found objects eg polystyrene, sticks and pebbles. Art Program to meet on a regular basis to make way for ongoing work for mentorees after Mapping New Territory has finished.

Summary

Reflecting on this time in Alice Springs conjures many words that describe the total experience. These ‘ing’ words best come to mind – words like inspiring, challenging, confronting, exciting, frustrating, fascinating, exhausting … to name a few.

Inspirational in the people I have met, challenged by going back to a grass roots way of working in it’s confrontational way of shaping a different type of program delivery.

Excited by the delight in achieving what has been previously unachievable for some.

Frustration at not having home comforts like the convenience of a car and my own studio space for workshops.

Fascinated by this awesome landscape in Alice Springs and the surrounding region.

Exhausted after a hectic and tight timetable of events…….

Thankyou

Thanks to all the arts community, participants and organisations that have supported this innovative and dynamic project. Alice Springs will be deeply etched into my heart as a result of this experience.

For further information contact Veronica Calarco

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