In the run-up to the final show I have been given unexpected time to reflect, aware that my fellow third-years have a much more rounded understanding of their practice and the context wherein their work operates. I am heartened though, after a chat with a tutor that even my perception of this incompleteness is a sign that my understanding has grown. Self-awareness and self-evaluation being part of the process. It's the bigger picture, of course, that counts. The final show is an artifice; a deadline set in order to assess work. The work continues to grow after the show. Life after University.
It is interesting to look at the parameters set, especially being aware that one can evaluate positively or negatively; see restrictions or challenges. We currently have a close-at-hand artistic community, valuable intellectual resources, practical help and opinion in return for a modulated structure that culminates in an assessment. It is like being given a particular size canvas to work on, or finding out what a material is capable of, then pushing, perhaps, to see how far things will go. It brings up issues in self-confidence and ability to work to a deadline, to see if one is still craving a word, or two of affirmation from a tutor, to see how much the grade really matters.
I am lucky to be part of a group of people who, are for the most part, focused, able, caring but not so confident. I marvel at the lack of ego, the self-effacing and those who only dare to give a quiet voice to ambition. The show will be good, very good.
June 16th 6-8pm Squires Building (and other locations) Northumbria University