Finito.. the end, done.
“Morph”…. the culmination of two and a half years of developing our arts practice, the finale, our last exhibition together. I can’t believe it has been two and a half years. Time has flown by!
What an amazing journey it has been.
My pieces in Morph: acid free paper, pastel, paper mache, synthetic cords.
(Unfortunately colours seem to change when posting the blog, correct colour in top photo.)
Working from home can be quite solitary. Getting to know my fellow Handshakers, forming friendships and the camaraderie that grew between us was a really joyful and an important part of being involved with HS6. We gelled and worked well together. Being able to talk and support each other made me feel less isolated. I have no doubt that these friendships will continue for years to come.
Handshake 6’rs with Peter and Hilda at the opening of Morph at Northart, Auckland.
Handshake 6 has been immensely valuable to me. The input of different tutors, master classes, and other workshops and of course my fantastic mentor, have all contributed to further investigation, research and exploration of my ideas and use of material in my practice. It has accelerated my progress and professionalism significantly.
My mentor Manuel Vilhena, was outstanding. He was incredibly generous with his time and I very much appreciated his humor, kindness and wisdom. He provided valuable feedback on my work and helped me solve the technical side of pieces as well. He has given me really helpful ideas about working without judging, how to deal with the opinions of others, using the unconscious, how to reflect on the work, thinking solutions not problems, what to do when stuck etc etc… the list is long.
But his truly greatest gift to me has been that he encouraged me to really lean into my intuitive way of making. I learned to trust my instincts and my process. It has taken away a lot of anxiety and second guessing. He has given me a great foundation that I feel is now part of my making that I can take forward with me. I feel more confident, lighter and happier in my studio. It has been such a pleasure and privilege working with Manuel, I miss our zoom talks!
I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity to be part of HS6. It has been a great learning experience and I have many fond memories.
Thank you to Creative New Zealand, this wouldn’t have been feasible without your support. Thank you to Iris Eichenberg and Renee Bevan for your encouragement and input. A big hug and thanks to Hilda and Peter for their vision and commitment to the program and to us individual artists. This wouldn’t be possible without you. And last but not least, heartfelt gratitude to my mentor Manuel Vilhena for accompanying me on this tremendous adventure.