And so yesterday my residency finished, a sad mix of feelings.
I’m really proud of the story I wrote. It started to do with abandoned suitcases, and then evolved into something to do with fire water tanks (the abandoned suitcase now playing a minor but important role). I have to give a HUGE shout-out to my Uncle Ross, and Peter, one of the artists’ other halves who gave me such insight into the world of farming, irrigation and fire water tanks, which I knew nothing about: but I know heaps now!
The other three artists did an amazing job, it was so exciting to be with them working in such insane quarters. Everyone produced such high-quality work and it was such an honour to be a part of it.
It was also slightly terrifying at times: we had members of the public stream in and out, watching every single word I typed: talk about pressure! It had to be perfect!!
The entire experience was amazing. I hope they do it again, I’d love to be a part of it a second time.
My story will be on the council website soon – I’ll keep you updated – but in the mean time, enjoy the view…
I’M FAMOUS!
My workspace: there was a projector screening on the wall which showed every. single. word. I. typed!!
My board: on the bottom is my inspiration for the story – abandoned suitcases. Above, I had a board where people could write their own thoughts about why a suitcase might be abandoned. It was so popular that it filled up so they started writing on green post-it notes!
My parents looking at my board
View from the back of the room (one of the aritsts’ had her space behind where I was standing)
Me talking during my speech
The artists, L-R Dan, me, the Mayor of Banyule Tom Melican, Lisa, Marcello