Floating Islands

 

 

Louise Ashcroft introduced us as group to her innovative studio space project, floating Island. A temporary work and gallery space in Canary Wharf. We toured the area taking in the atmosphere of commerce and trade.We had previously agreed To split into groups and respond to the area by designing a collaborative artwork. I was intrigued by the prospect. This was an interesting opportunity to work together. I learned a very valuable lesson instantly. If you are going to work in a group you must if at all possible, agree to meet together at all times.Otherwise something occurs that cant be foreseen.The other two artists in my group met independently before the day and came up with a very good and plausible proposal.They presented it to me and I was impressed. However, I just didnt feel part of it.

Any suggestions I had to offer didnt fit with their ideas which were already fixed. I was unable to be there on the day of the Presentation of the proposals, so we all agreed that they should go ahead. It was very much praised and I was pleased for them. It did raise very interesting questions for me about the process of collaboration, planning and agreement of focus etc. I have been working independently as an individual for many years and am looking forward to the opportunity to make work with others, But it seems to me that it is very important to collaborate with people who share they same ideals and interests or who compliment each others skills and knowledge.

I intend to return later this year and respond myself or perhaps invite someone else to join me. I believe that I need to take responsibility and the initiative to revisit this very thought provoking environment. I wish to make a piece about trade.