Friday 17 June 2011
NO REST FOR THE WICKED!
Just as I thought I was going to sleep for a month and laze around watching daytime TV, Miss Insch, Headmistress of my favourite King Edward V1 Handsworth School, has summoned me to give three assemblies next week in which I show my film, 'The Plight of the Albatross'. When Miss Insch summons you, you go! Actually I can now reveal that it was she who transported me to college for the hand-in and offered to pay personally to relocate my TVinstallation. She accompanied me to the meeting with Sean and the Head of BIAD and sat quietly whilst I read my statement. She attended my Degree Show and gave me moral support. Since
Degree Show comments
The Degree Show was the culmination of three years hard work for all of us. Some aspects of it worked really well but others need to be seriously reviewed.
What worked well
The studios were presented to a really professional standard. Sean and the technicians deserve to be congratulated. We really were given the best possible venue to showcase our work. Some of us will never show in such surroundings again.
The 'Talking Head' videos filmed by Amanda Grist, Level 5, were the best way of describing student work the Show has ever used. She interviewed us about our work and then included images of our work to illustrate the concept. Sitting down to watch these talking heads taught me more about the work than I had ever picked up in group tutorials. It was a pity only nine of us chose this format to decribe our practice.
Room for improvement
Organisation throughout the run-up to the Show was abysmal. This was partially due to the apathy of the student body involved. It was also due to Sean failing to delegate. I know it was our group show, but a lot of the younger students had no clue as to how much organisation is involved in putting on a show. We had a trial run in putting on 'Workout' last year which, for some reason, ran much better. Sean needed to play to people's strengths and delegate tasks to people who can deliver. Everyone on the course is willing and helpful. They just need to be told what exactly it is they need to do. Ian liaised between Sean and the student body but it shouldn't have fallen to one person. I can sympathise with Sean's frustration at the lack of organisation but, to be fair, if he had offered some direction early on, the wheels would have run far more smoothly.
Utter Shambles!
The problem I encountered regarding the presentation of my work, leading to a formal complaint on my part, could have been avoided all togther with some forward planning on behalf of Sean. He blows with the wind with his decision-making. In trying to please everyone, he antagonises everyone. It is a fine line to walk between fairness and spineless. His remit as Course Director cum Curator cum Creative Director is to produce the best show possible which showcases the students' degree work to its greatest potential. Individual grievances and petty rivalries must be secondary to this primary concern. Throughout the year Sean has shown himself to vacillate but the gaping holes in his experience and lack of professional mettle were glaringly obvious during this Show.
At the time when Show Proposals are submitted, students are asked what their requirements are; an electrical socket nearby, wall space, hanging space, a corner location or a big floor space. As we are not having solo exhibitions, it is imperative that we compromise for the overall good of the Show. Sean needs to have some Show guidelines on Moodle. If you fail to meet a deadline, then your requests may be overuled by that of another student whose work is actually ready. If you have a problem with the content of another student's work, in my case the open sound, then you submit your objection to that student in writing no later than 7 working days before hand-in date. If you cannot come to an agreement, then Sean speaks to the students together and has the final decision. If you approach him on the hand-in day, ninety minutes before the deadline - tough! This is another area where Sean's lack of professionalism is evident. Under pressure (excuse the pun) when it comes to decision-making, instead of going into the automatic pilot mode of the professional leader, he makes basic errors of judgment. In order to raise an objection, students need to know which studio they will be located in well beforehand. For this Show, people were being relocated right up until the last minute despite the email from Sean (dated 18 May) stating that our studio spaces would be allocated by the end of the following week. This is something that would need to be addressed.
All students need to know that it is highly likely that a sound installation of some sort will be in their studio. Sean needs to have a blanket policy that either all open sound is permitted or it is banned. If it is banned, then a compromise could be that sound installation students are required to section off a separate area. Another compromise, which I offered and was refused, is to allow the sound to play once every half hour so that everyone in the studio has an equal chance to present their work as intended.
I am certainly not the only student who thinks decision-making for the Show left a lot to be desired. I can't quote them without their permission but in general discussion a lot of complaints have surfaced.
Labelling of work - or not, in the case of our Show
I emailed Ruth and Sean on the 18th May ask if we were responsible for our own labelling or, as rumour had it, there was to be a standardised format for all students' work. I was told labelling was to be standardised. This saved me getting a plaque made. Two weeks prior to the Show, I asked Sean what was happening with labelling. He said that was Ruth's department.
We had a Show meeting and were told to send in a description for our work by noon the next day. Mine was ready and waiting so I emailed it. I have never seen the 250 word description appear anywhere. I know when I go to a gallery, if I like a particular piece of work, I want to read about it. In the case of my film ,there was no sound if the headphones were being used by someone else and you couldn't even read about it to decide if you wanted to listen to it!
B-A-D curating!
Correction
I invigilated the studio on Saturday 18th from1-4pm. I could see that the descriptions of our work were on a printed A4 sheet lying on the floor by the door. When I looked at it, I noticed the description for mine and Ian's were not included. Ruth came in at about 10 to 4pm and placed another printed sheet on the floor. This included our descriptions. I don't think 10 minutes before the end of the penultimate day of the Degree Show is timely. Neither do I think a couple of A4 sheets lying on the floor is the best way to label a piece of work. Either a sign outside the studio with a separate description for each piece of work, if you don't want to clutter the studio, or a label next to the work. Call me fussy, but I think Ruth would have something to say if any Show she exhibited in failed to include a description of her work. As it happened, I asked visitors if they wanted me to tell them about each student's work. After I had, they said it had been really useful. I'm not sure every invigilator offered this service. This is where the Talking Head videos came in useful. People could watch them and then, if they wanted, go in search of the specific work that interested them. I had a few people comment, 'This is the Albatross film.' They had come in search of it after watching my Talking Head.
What a waste!
Down in the basement, next to the disabled entrance, are five unopened boxes of our Show brochures. There is only one box which is opened and half of them are still untouched. We raised funds for those brochures. They cost £1000. We put £500 and Sean matched it. They are of no use beyond the Show. Why are they still sitting there? Unless you need to use the disabled doors, you wouldn't even know they are there. You may as well recycle £5 notes!
What worked well
The studios were presented to a really professional standard. Sean and the technicians deserve to be congratulated. We really were given the best possible venue to showcase our work. Some of us will never show in such surroundings again.
The 'Talking Head' videos filmed by Amanda Grist, Level 5, were the best way of describing student work the Show has ever used. She interviewed us about our work and then included images of our work to illustrate the concept. Sitting down to watch these talking heads taught me more about the work than I had ever picked up in group tutorials. It was a pity only nine of us chose this format to decribe our practice.
Room for improvement
Organisation throughout the run-up to the Show was abysmal. This was partially due to the apathy of the student body involved. It was also due to Sean failing to delegate. I know it was our group show, but a lot of the younger students had no clue as to how much organisation is involved in putting on a show. We had a trial run in putting on 'Workout' last year which, for some reason, ran much better. Sean needed to play to people's strengths and delegate tasks to people who can deliver. Everyone on the course is willing and helpful. They just need to be told what exactly it is they need to do. Ian liaised between Sean and the student body but it shouldn't have fallen to one person. I can sympathise with Sean's frustration at the lack of organisation but, to be fair, if he had offered some direction early on, the wheels would have run far more smoothly.
Utter Shambles!
The problem I encountered regarding the presentation of my work, leading to a formal complaint on my part, could have been avoided all togther with some forward planning on behalf of Sean. He blows with the wind with his decision-making. In trying to please everyone, he antagonises everyone. It is a fine line to walk between fairness and spineless. His remit as Course Director cum Curator cum Creative Director is to produce the best show possible which showcases the students' degree work to its greatest potential. Individual grievances and petty rivalries must be secondary to this primary concern. Throughout the year Sean has shown himself to vacillate but the gaping holes in his experience and lack of professional mettle were glaringly obvious during this Show.
At the time when Show Proposals are submitted, students are asked what their requirements are; an electrical socket nearby, wall space, hanging space, a corner location or a big floor space. As we are not having solo exhibitions, it is imperative that we compromise for the overall good of the Show. Sean needs to have some Show guidelines on Moodle. If you fail to meet a deadline, then your requests may be overuled by that of another student whose work is actually ready. If you have a problem with the content of another student's work, in my case the open sound, then you submit your objection to that student in writing no later than 7 working days before hand-in date. If you cannot come to an agreement, then Sean speaks to the students together and has the final decision. If you approach him on the hand-in day, ninety minutes before the deadline - tough! This is another area where Sean's lack of professionalism is evident. Under pressure (excuse the pun) when it comes to decision-making, instead of going into the automatic pilot mode of the professional leader, he makes basic errors of judgment. In order to raise an objection, students need to know which studio they will be located in well beforehand. For this Show, people were being relocated right up until the last minute despite the email from Sean (dated 18 May) stating that our studio spaces would be allocated by the end of the following week. This is something that would need to be addressed.
All students need to know that it is highly likely that a sound installation of some sort will be in their studio. Sean needs to have a blanket policy that either all open sound is permitted or it is banned. If it is banned, then a compromise could be that sound installation students are required to section off a separate area. Another compromise, which I offered and was refused, is to allow the sound to play once every half hour so that everyone in the studio has an equal chance to present their work as intended.
I am certainly not the only student who thinks decision-making for the Show left a lot to be desired. I can't quote them without their permission but in general discussion a lot of complaints have surfaced.
Labelling of work - or not, in the case of our Show
I emailed Ruth and Sean on the 18th May ask if we were responsible for our own labelling or, as rumour had it, there was to be a standardised format for all students' work. I was told labelling was to be standardised. This saved me getting a plaque made. Two weeks prior to the Show, I asked Sean what was happening with labelling. He said that was Ruth's department.
We had a Show meeting and were told to send in a description for our work by noon the next day. Mine was ready and waiting so I emailed it. I have never seen the 250 word description appear anywhere. I know when I go to a gallery, if I like a particular piece of work, I want to read about it. In the case of my film ,there was no sound if the headphones were being used by someone else and you couldn't even read about it to decide if you wanted to listen to it!
B-A-D curating!
Correction
I invigilated the studio on Saturday 18th from1-4pm. I could see that the descriptions of our work were on a printed A4 sheet lying on the floor by the door. When I looked at it, I noticed the description for mine and Ian's were not included. Ruth came in at about 10 to 4pm and placed another printed sheet on the floor. This included our descriptions. I don't think 10 minutes before the end of the penultimate day of the Degree Show is timely. Neither do I think a couple of A4 sheets lying on the floor is the best way to label a piece of work. Either a sign outside the studio with a separate description for each piece of work, if you don't want to clutter the studio, or a label next to the work. Call me fussy, but I think Ruth would have something to say if any Show she exhibited in failed to include a description of her work. As it happened, I asked visitors if they wanted me to tell them about each student's work. After I had, they said it had been really useful. I'm not sure every invigilator offered this service. This is where the Talking Head videos came in useful. People could watch them and then, if they wanted, go in search of the specific work that interested them. I had a few people comment, 'This is the Albatross film.' They had come in search of it after watching my Talking Head.
What a waste!
Down in the basement, next to the disabled entrance, are five unopened boxes of our Show brochures. There is only one box which is opened and half of them are still untouched. We raised funds for those brochures. They cost £1000. We put £500 and Sean matched it. They are of no use beyond the Show. Why are they still sitting there? Unless you need to use the disabled doors, you wouldn't even know they are there. You may as well recycle £5 notes!
Degree Results Day!
I felt excited to go and collect my results. I expected a 2:2. I believed myself to be borderline 2:1 as I have made a significant improvement this year. It all depends on the way the marks are weighted. If they take the top 10 marks then I would get a 2:1 but if this years marks carried the most weight then it would be a high 2:2. Whatever the outcome, I am really proud to have got to the end. Despite my ongoing cognitive disabilities due to two strokes, my recent broken leg and then the shock of the last-minute 'headphone' decision, I had completed the degree to the best of my ability.
I collected the brown envelope from Sean and went out to the other gathered students, some of whom had received their own results. I opened the envelope and couldn't read a thing, the print was so small. I asked Chris what it said, '2:1!'. I had to put on my glasses to read it for myself. There it was in black and white - albeit small print. Vindicated!
We all congratulated each other. We will all go off in our own directions now. I wish everyone well.
I collected the brown envelope from Sean and went out to the other gathered students, some of whom had received their own results. I opened the envelope and couldn't read a thing, the print was so small. I asked Chris what it said, '2:1!'. I had to put on my glasses to read it for myself. There it was in black and white - albeit small print. Vindicated!
We all congratulated each other. We will all go off in our own directions now. I wish everyone well.
DEGREE RESULTS TOMORROW!
At last, three years in the waiting, the results are in tomorrow. I want to blog before I get them so that my comments are objective. My overall view of the course is that:
- I have never quite known what is going on because things change all the time. The Professional Practice module last year involved work experience whereas this year it was about research into your chosen field of practice. Just as I got to grips with sketchbooks for assessment, this year they have been replaced with a blog or documented report. It would have been useful to have an interim tutorial to check that the blog is as they want it.
- The visiting practitioners have been interesting in that they present the work they have produced and offer tutorials to students whose practice is similar to their own.
- Considering the student body is so small, I always get the impression they don't know who we are. I had an email from the CHC tutor, KL, chastising me for not attending her tutorial and making sure that my absence was noted in my file. I informed her that I was actually there and had a feedback sheet to prove it. She apologise stating she had confused mw with a Worcester college student. RC wrote a completely different surname on my tutorial feedback sheet. For the entire year she has been getting Merlene confused with Myrtle. On another occasion gave me ten days extension to a hand-in deadline, as set out in my Disability Statement, only to change it to five days because of the length of the report. When I explained that my Disability Support worker was only due back from holiday after the five day deadline had passed, she compromised on seven days saying, 'it will look like I don't know what I'm doing'. On the subject of Disability, over the two years of the Foundation Course and the three year full-time BA course, I have only asked for an extension to the essay deadline on two occasions. Both because of the absence of my Disability Support worker. My CHC essay was written but she types it for me. I went to the Course Director, three weeks before the deadline, to tell him I would need an extension and who did I need to consult, to which he responded 'So you're going to play the Disability card?' which I thought was a bit insensitive. I told him that sometimes I thought the tutors forgot that I had significant disabilities. 'That's good isn't it? You wouldn't want to be treated any differently to the others would you?' he asked. 'Well actually', I thought, ' I do need reasonable adjustments so that I am the same as everyone else.
- At the beginning of the year we received a notification of Etiquette. It was long overdue. I totally agree that students should arrive in time, especially when attending visiting practitioner talks. However, shouldn't this etiquette apply to the staff as well? We had a technician workshop. He arrived half an hour late. When we were all convened to meet in the studios to discuss the installation of our work, one of us had to go to the tutor office after fifteen minutes of waiting to find the tutors chatting. No doubt it was important. We were always kept waiting in the past but we thought this Etiquette policy would improve things. It hasn't.
- There is a culture of arrogance and disdain within the leadership towards the student body. They operate on the principle that the stick is far more effective than the carrot. I have never seen so many grown people come out of tutorials crying. We all dislike criticism of our work but appreciate constructive critisicm as this moves us forward. Our work is often met with derision or the tutors walking away in disgust. This is hardly encouraging. This would be excusable if it was a one-off but it is the norm. I have commented to Sean about this because my concern is not for the mature students, who have been in a professional field and are used to tough treatment in the workplace. Some of the younger students are destroyed by the negative comments they receive. It has led to a lot of dropouts. I had been trying to put my finger on why there was such a low morale on the course. We have lovely studios to work in and the students get along very well despite the age range. One comment made by a tutor during a group crit underlined the attitude of some members of the Department. This tutor, who shall remain nameless, said, 'I have no personal investment in any of you lot'. I thought, 'how can you be in this job with that attitude?' This is the same tutor who when I told her I had been nominated to attend the Public Art Strategy at Twycross zoo in collaboration with Commissions East commented, 'Don't expect anything to come of it.' Thank you for your support!. It then dawned on me that the Department is all about their reflected glory. You can have the best facilities going but if the interests of the students are not uppermost, the only way is down.
- Another concern has been the personal relationship between two of the tutors. This should not be a problem but some students have felt that if you have a problem with one tutor, you cannot complain to the Course Director. This is further complicated by the fact that they are also internal examiners. I don't think that this would be a problem as there are measures in place that ensure fairness, but it still creates tension amongst the students.
Wednesday 15 June 2011
Technical problem!
Received an email telling me that the team can't operate my film without instructions. Film is not playing on a loop. I am trying to get someone to take me into college with my disability scooter. Ho Hum!
Tuesday 14 June 2011
Degree Show, Bournville, 13 June 2011
What a night! It began at 5pm when my friend transported me to college with my mobility scooter. We went into the studio were my TV installation was located. It wasn't switched on. My friend went in search of the TV remote. She found it and I started the film. The sound was over the headphones. We left to go to the fashion show out on the Green.
At 7pm we returned and I was pleasantly surprised to see quite a few people moving through the studios.When about eight people were looking at the film, I asked if they would like to hear it. They said yes so I pulled the headphones and we had live sound. I talked a little about the concept of the film; the impact of marine litter on the Albatross population due to the mother feeding its chick on plastic debris, leading to a digestive blockage and slow starvation. People asked questions and I was encouraged by their interest.
One man approached me and said he has first hand experience of this very problem. He has a holiday home in the Caribbean and ships actually dump litter which is then washed up on the beach outside his house. He cleans his area of beach but there are two empty properties either side of him which he cannot enter so the rubbish is left and he sees birds feeding on it. He said this problem should have a higher profile.
Another fella, a film maker himself gave me some useful tips. He was critical of certain aspects but I had asked his opinion and appreciated the benefit of his expertise. I finished by asking him, 'was your first film this good?' He replied, 'No'. That was good enough for me. 8pm soon came around and the visitors began to disperse. I closed down my TV and reinstated the headphones. If the amount of people, possibly 50, who watched the film with open sound had had to do so through headphones, it would have taken hours. I rest my case.
At 7pm we returned and I was pleasantly surprised to see quite a few people moving through the studios.When about eight people were looking at the film, I asked if they would like to hear it. They said yes so I pulled the headphones and we had live sound. I talked a little about the concept of the film; the impact of marine litter on the Albatross population due to the mother feeding its chick on plastic debris, leading to a digestive blockage and slow starvation. People asked questions and I was encouraged by their interest.
One man approached me and said he has first hand experience of this very problem. He has a holiday home in the Caribbean and ships actually dump litter which is then washed up on the beach outside his house. He cleans his area of beach but there are two empty properties either side of him which he cannot enter so the rubbish is left and he sees birds feeding on it. He said this problem should have a higher profile.
Another fella, a film maker himself gave me some useful tips. He was critical of certain aspects but I had asked his opinion and appreciated the benefit of his expertise. I finished by asking him, 'was your first film this good?' He replied, 'No'. That was good enough for me. 8pm soon came around and the visitors began to disperse. I closed down my TV and reinstated the headphones. If the amount of people, possibly 50, who watched the film with open sound had had to do so through headphones, it would have taken hours. I rest my case.
Thursday 9 June 2011
Compromise?
My friend came back into the studio. Seeing my utter dejection, she asked what had happened. Sean came back into the studio. My work still had not been signed off. My friend asked if we couldn't compromise on the open sound? Sean had mentioned two empty studios. My friend offered to pay for and provide the carpenters for the installation of my work in one of those, in order to have my film presented in the way it was intended throughout the process. Sean flatly refused as this would mean calling back the Health & Safety officers and did I want to risk jeopardising the whole Degree Show? Of course not.
I asked him if, for my assessment on the following Tuesday, the examiners could see my film with open sound as the other artists wouldn't be involved. Again this was out of the question as the presentation for the assessment has to be consistent with that of the Degree Show.
Sean asked me at what distance from the screen I wanted the headphones to reach. He told me to position my mobility scooter and decide. I asked him where I would get headphones from? He told me to go to see Boris, the technician. He left the studio. I moved backwards and forwards on my mobility scooter but the whole thing was becoming a blur. My friend asked if we should go to Currys to buy headphones. They would need to be PAT tested before I could be signed off and, by then, Sean had told us Boris the technician was off sick. Sean came back into the studio bearing a set of headphones and we thanked him. We now had to get off to B&Q to source a hook. Sean signed off my work. It wasn't the best way to remember hand-in day!
A Sleepless Weekend
It wasn't until that night that I realised all the implications of this change in presentation of my work:
I really felt that Sean had held a gun to my head. I was coerced into agreeing to the use of headphones because of a) the 'problem' had to be resolved before sign-off. The deadline had already passed. b) There was no reasoning with Sean. His decision was made. c) There was no compromise as Sean had pointed out that bringing Health & Safety in again could compromise the whole show.
Result! It pays to know people who know people in high places. Due to the community educational art projects I have been involved with, I have quite a few contacts in academia. They felt that Sean's action was outrageous and passed me on to whoever they thought might be useful in this situation. By Monday afternoon I received confirmation that a meeting was being called between myself, Sean and John Butler, Head of BIAD for Tuesday. It was to take place after my scheduled presentation assessment but I was grateful to have this meeting so soon as I don't think I could have dealt with the anxiety much longer.
Presentation to Internal Examiners
If any BCU students with a problem read this, take heart. I went in with my points prepared in a statement. John Butler allowed my friend to sit in with me. I did not want her to contribute other than in a supporting role because my nerves were in shreds from lack of sleep and food. I was allowed to read my statement and then Sean had his right to reply. I offered the compromise of only showing my film with open sound once every half hour. Sean made no response. John Butler gave me a fair hearing. Whatever the outcome, I feel that the decision will be made by fair-minded people.
I asked him if, for my assessment on the following Tuesday, the examiners could see my film with open sound as the other artists wouldn't be involved. Again this was out of the question as the presentation for the assessment has to be consistent with that of the Degree Show.
Sean asked me at what distance from the screen I wanted the headphones to reach. He told me to position my mobility scooter and decide. I asked him where I would get headphones from? He told me to go to see Boris, the technician. He left the studio. I moved backwards and forwards on my mobility scooter but the whole thing was becoming a blur. My friend asked if we should go to Currys to buy headphones. They would need to be PAT tested before I could be signed off and, by then, Sean had told us Boris the technician was off sick. Sean came back into the studio bearing a set of headphones and we thanked him. We now had to get off to B&Q to source a hook. Sean signed off my work. It wasn't the best way to remember hand-in day!
A Sleepless Weekend
It wasn't until that night that I realised all the implications of this change in presentation of my work:
I really felt that Sean had held a gun to my head. I was coerced into agreeing to the use of headphones because of a) the 'problem' had to be resolved before sign-off. The deadline had already passed. b) There was no reasoning with Sean. His decision was made. c) There was no compromise as Sean had pointed out that bringing Health & Safety in again could compromise the whole show.
- In the 2000 word illustrated document I handed in I had made no mention of headphones anywhere. I had an entire section on presentation and sound. Did that not look like an oversight on my part that I had omitted to mention headphones? I also had a section on 'professional use of my film'. Wouldn't the examiners think it odd that I intended to show it to groups as the basis for an art workshop through headphones? It was never at any stage my intention to use headphones consequently I made no reference to them.
- My presentation was due the following Tuesday, before which there was no time to appeal about this headphones ruling. I had no idea as to what my student rights were. Was I entitled to a student advocate? I was beginning to feel really sick.
- I felt that my work was being unfairly penalised because it simply didn't suit three other students out of the entire student body. Isn't this a form of censorship? Other people who had sound installations were permitted the use of open sound. There should be a blanket policy - either no open sound for anyone or reasonable sound permitted for everyone. I was the only student with an audio installation penalised in this way. Was this flouting equal opportunity rulings?
- Then there was the logistics of the Show itself. My film lasts 5 minutes give or take. Using headphones, only one person can watch it at a time. No other person's work is limited to an audience of one. How would Ian react if only one person at a time were permitted to enter his 'particpatory art installation' and the rest ushered to wait behind a barrier? Who is going to be prepared to wait in line for the use of the headphones?
- There is also the issue of the viewer's engagement with the piece. I had planned for months how to present it with the greatest impact. The music is integral to the piece. Every image is synchronised to match the ryhthm of the music. Take that away and you only have half a film. You have changed the dynamic of the piece and the interaction between viewer and work.
- I was seriously worried about my presentation to examiners the following Tuesday. Sean insisted that the presentaiton for the assessment had to be consistent with that of the Show. How was I going to present my work when it is in a different format to what I had planned all along? Was I going to pretend that the headphones weren't there or was I going to pretend that I'd planned to present it that way?
Result! It pays to know people who know people in high places. Due to the community educational art projects I have been involved with, I have quite a few contacts in academia. They felt that Sean's action was outrageous and passed me on to whoever they thought might be useful in this situation. By Monday afternoon I received confirmation that a meeting was being called between myself, Sean and John Butler, Head of BIAD for Tuesday. It was to take place after my scheduled presentation assessment but I was grateful to have this meeting so soon as I don't think I could have dealt with the anxiety much longer.
Presentation to Internal Examiners
If any BCU students with a problem read this, take heart. I went in with my points prepared in a statement. John Butler allowed my friend to sit in with me. I did not want her to contribute other than in a supporting role because my nerves were in shreds from lack of sleep and food. I was allowed to read my statement and then Sean had his right to reply. I offered the compromise of only showing my film with open sound once every half hour. Sean made no response. John Butler gave me a fair hearing. Whatever the outcome, I feel that the decision will be made by fair-minded people.
Wednesday 8 June 2011
Instant decisions
I began to justify my use of music - which I have outlined throughout my blog posts - but it fell on deaf ears. Sean had decided that the use of headphones would be a preferable way to present my film. I was stunned. Throughout all the previous group crits, informal discussions, tutorials and emails, there had never been mention of headphones to present the film. I asked if I could think about it. Sean said that until this 'problem' was solved I could not sign off my work- the 1.00pm deadline had already passed. Feeling totally intimidated and pressured, I conceded to headphones. Sean then asked me how I wanted to present them. A pedestal? a hook? I had taken months over decisions regarding the engagement of the viewer with my work, now I was expected to make instant decisions about something I had never even considered before. The other three students left the studio, then Sean made his exit. I was left there in stunned silence.
Now here's the problem...
Sean and myself waited for the other three, who arrived together. He began by saying that our pieces worked really well together. Kayleigh's work depicts war and military machinery which has a huge carbon footprint, Ian's piece is made of shiny plastic, which appears in my film, Carly has three paintings of Hollywood actresses and film at that time used harmful chemicals and film is cinematic and my film is about the environment and shown on a screen. I was wondering where this was all leading and then Sean asked, 'is there anything that doesn't work?' to which Ian replied 'the music'. My music. It turned out that my music was contentious because it impacted upon the viewing of their work. Given the fact that we had a hand-in deadline at 1.00pm I felt it was a bit late in the day to raise this matter.
Hand-in deadline shock!
On Thursday 2 June, I went into college for the first time since the Bank Holiday re-opening. I was impressed at the work going on in the studios. All the walls had new display areas built by the technicians and painted white by the students. The technicians, Graham, Boris and Pete were busy building my TV installation. It comprises two panels of MDF about 6 feet tall by 4 feet wide. They had concealed the wiringand were on the final stages of screwing down the side struts. They told me it had taken since Tuesday to install because of all the precise measurements. Because of my broken leg, Sean had overseen the locating of my TV installation and he had done me proud. My friend, who had transported me in, because I am still unable to walk, painted the panels white ready for the TV to be installed. I was to share a studio with Ian, who was constructing in situ a framework with reflective plastic panels for his 'participation art' piece, Carly, who had mounted three paintings of actresses from scenes in old movies and Kayleigh, whose embroidery work was a comment on Guantanamo Bay interns. As we left the paint drying on Thursday, I felt a sense of 'almost there'. It was just a question of putting the finishing touches to the paintwork, mounting the plasma TV screen, plugging in my memory stick and my film was ready to go for the hand-in deadline the next day at 1pm. Months and months of work and just one day away from hand-in.
Friday 3 June. Hand-in day.
There was a buzz in all the studios when I arrived at 10.00 on Friday. Ian came over to me and said there was a problem with my sound installation, had I received his email last night? I thought he meant that there was a technical problem with the wiring. I had looked at Moodle and my emails at 9.00pm the previous evening before going to bed, after putting the finishing touches to my report - nothing new.
Sean called to me from a platform in the far corner of the studio that there was an objection to my sound from the other studentssharing the studio. He cupped his hand over his ears and said 'emails have been flying about'. He said he was convening a meeting for the four of us at 12.35 after the Health & Safety officers had left. I could see that he was up to his eyes in it, so I made myself busy in the meantime. I saw the other three students from my studio go off into a room together. I looked around the studios on my mobility scooter. Sean told me not to be conspicuous as he feared the Health & Safety officers might find a problem. He needn't have worried as there was ample space for me to move and where there wasn't, I asked students to move their personal belongings. I went off to find myself a quiet corner, out of the way. I worked with Steve on drawing up a sheet with turn on/off instructions for the artists who were using equipment. Steve is another student working on a film. His film is about violence in an asylum. He is really into goth. His work has come on hugely over the three years of the course. Sean gave the thumbs up that the Health & Safety officers had given the all clear and I made my way to the disabled platform to be ready for the group meeting.
Friday 3 June. Hand-in day.
There was a buzz in all the studios when I arrived at 10.00 on Friday. Ian came over to me and said there was a problem with my sound installation, had I received his email last night? I thought he meant that there was a technical problem with the wiring. I had looked at Moodle and my emails at 9.00pm the previous evening before going to bed, after putting the finishing touches to my report - nothing new.
Sean called to me from a platform in the far corner of the studio that there was an objection to my sound from the other studentssharing the studio. He cupped his hand over his ears and said 'emails have been flying about'. He said he was convening a meeting for the four of us at 12.35 after the Health & Safety officers had left. I could see that he was up to his eyes in it, so I made myself busy in the meantime. I saw the other three students from my studio go off into a room together. I looked around the studios on my mobility scooter. Sean told me not to be conspicuous as he feared the Health & Safety officers might find a problem. He needn't have worried as there was ample space for me to move and where there wasn't, I asked students to move their personal belongings. I went off to find myself a quiet corner, out of the way. I worked with Steve on drawing up a sheet with turn on/off instructions for the artists who were using equipment. Steve is another student working on a film. His film is about violence in an asylum. He is really into goth. His work has come on hugely over the three years of the course. Sean gave the thumbs up that the Health & Safety officers had given the all clear and I made my way to the disabled platform to be ready for the group meeting.
Saturday 28 May 2011
The plaster cast comes off!
On Wednesday the day arrived to have my cast removed. Fingers crossed that the X-ray showed that leg was healing in the three places it was broken. The removal of the cast was pretty scary, but I was assured that the circular saw was completely safe!
I have been kitted out with a boot which can bear weight but I still need to use crutches. I was quite shocked at how swollen the leg is still. The consultant said it could be up to a year before it returns to normal. I had a lovely long shower to remove six weeks worth of dead skin. Then I moisturised with olive oil. Just being out of the confinement of that heavy cast and allowing the air to the skin is wonderful!
Session 3 - Litter Art workshop
Monday 23 May 2011
Great response to my film!
I finalised my 'Plight of the Albatross' film on Friday. I took it into the dance studio of King Edward V1 Handsworth School to watch on the 40" plasma TV. There were some girls in there having a final after-school dance rehearsal before their GCSE exam on Tuesday. After they had finished their session I played the film for my own viewing. One by one they turned round and began to watch it. They seemed mesmerized by the images. When it had finished they broke into a round of applause and one student said she felt like crying. Another described it as 'wicked!' I felt really proud of my work. It has involved hours and hours of editing to pull it all together. It was the first time I had seen it on the big screen and it really is breathtaking.
I just hope it evokes the same response in the examiners!
I just hope it evokes the same response in the examiners!
Sunday 22 May 2011
Fairtrade bunting is a record breaker!
The Fairtrade bunting has been entered for the Guinness Book of Records longest bunting ever. Measuring 3,427.94 metres, the final bunting was hung in Battersea Park. It is awaiting Guinness verification. It's really uplifting to think King Edward V1 Handsworth School has made such a positive contribution to Fairtrade history.
Friday 20 May 2011
Session 2 - Art Workshop - with King EdwardV1 Handsworth School
The students are really getting into the project. During the session they cut up various plastics such as disposable cups, 3 foot long coloured plastic straws, carrier bags etc.
They have been very creative when producing the skeleton of these marine creatures. Some have strung together plastic cups with strimmer cable to create a backbone. The group working on the jelly fish are working purely in monochrome. They are using bubble wrap, clear plastic and lots of cling film.
Nice variety of textures and creative use of everyday items. Looking good!
Saturday 14 May 2011
Litter Art workshop at K.E.
I worked with a Year 9 group at King Edward V1 Handsworth School this week. I showed my 'Plight of the Albatross' film which we then discussed. I had already cut out large templates of 'marine creatures'. They then selected from the collection of plastic bottle tops, netting and carrier bags to produce the fossil of a marine creature. The hour soon passed and some interesting artwork was developing. I will inlude some photos next session.
Final film editing sessions
I cannot believe how long it takes to make minor adjustments to the editing. In spite of a broken leg, I have spent four hours in the editing suite this week after a tutorial with Steve B. at BCU. He also prefers the orchestral version of 'Under Pressure'. I am pleased that he commented that the images carry you along with the rhythm as I have really worked hard to achieve this. There is some refining needed but I will wait until the final rendering to do that. I explained that I have found some closer images of an albatross in flight which are far more appealing and make you feel more connected with it. I am going to replace those with the current ones I have which are a little distant and blurred.
I am also playing with the presentation of the quotations from the Rime of the Anciernt Mariner. I don't want them to distract from the images. I am going to test out using a split screen where the quote is in its own area at the bottom. Also I will try using a black background with just the quotation on the screen. What I am up against is maintaining the rhythm of the music and so squeezing in enough time to read the text means losing an image along the way. As every image is crucial to the narrative, my dilemma is which ones to cut?
I am also playing with the presentation of the quotations from the Rime of the Anciernt Mariner. I don't want them to distract from the images. I am going to test out using a split screen where the quote is in its own area at the bottom. Also I will try using a black background with just the quotation on the screen. What I am up against is maintaining the rhythm of the music and so squeezing in enough time to read the text means losing an image along the way. As every image is crucial to the narrative, my dilemma is which ones to cut?
Friday 6 May 2011
More feedback
Anyone who comes by my house is a captive audience subjected to watching my film.
Comments regarding Queen vocal version v Royal Philharmonic orchestral version. Philippa- the words really emphasise the urgency of the situation.
Catherine- the orchestral version is more subtle. It takes you on a journey, then you see the shocking message.
I have worked through every scene of the film which includes so far about one hundred images over four minutes. In my next editing session I am going to cut and paste numerous scenes, lengthen some, shorten others. I want to do some fading in and out. I want to experiment with putting the quotes from the Ancient Mariner on their own against a black background.
Comments regarding Queen vocal version v Royal Philharmonic orchestral version. Philippa- the words really emphasise the urgency of the situation.
Catherine- the orchestral version is more subtle. It takes you on a journey, then you see the shocking message.
I have worked through every scene of the film which includes so far about one hundred images over four minutes. In my next editing session I am going to cut and paste numerous scenes, lengthen some, shorten others. I want to do some fading in and out. I want to experiment with putting the quotes from the Ancient Mariner on their own against a black background.
Thursday 5 May 2011
Litter Art workshop based on Albatross film.
Naturally, you can't go headfirst into a secondary school and dabble in a bit of Art without having a firm plan of action which includes educational aims, objectives, outcomes. With very short notice, I am writing a scheme of work which then needs to be approved by the Art department so that I can go ahead with my workshop. I have already researched litter artists (see post dated ) so I already had an idea of what direction my workshop would take:
Session 1
Show Albatross film
Discuss particular images which made an impact
Discuss how artwork could be produced to further communicate message.
Specific reference to fossils - sculptures of fossils from the 'plastic era'
Show examples of litter art
Show materials. Ask students to collect materials for their own project
For next session bring plastic litter to use for artwork and sketch in sketchbook of fossil
Session 2
Brief review of what they are expected to produce
Work on project
Roberto es tu tio
Session 1
Show Albatross film
Discuss particular images which made an impact
Discuss how artwork could be produced to further communicate message.
Specific reference to fossils - sculptures of fossils from the 'plastic era'
Show examples of litter art
Show materials. Ask students to collect materials for their own project
For next session bring plastic litter to use for artwork and sketch in sketchbook of fossil
Session 2
Brief review of what they are expected to produce
Work on project
Roberto es tu tio
Albatross film - Campaign video or Artwork?
I continued editing my film yesterday. I have removed all the informative text. I have inserted lines from 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner' to underline my message.
I am tweaking the length of some clips to make them more punchy. I have synchronised the industrial clips perfectly to the music.
I have been watching more wildlife documentaries on the Albatross. I have found some images which I consider to be more appealing. Instead of the Albatross seeming remote in a far-off ocean, these were filmed landing and taking off from an island off Tazmania. The images of the Albatross are much closer and you can only look in awe at their size and complete grace with which they soar and float in the breeze. You can see their faces and you actually feel some connection with them. You certainly envy their flying ability.
These images contrast sharply with the images of the decaying Albatross corpses. How such a majestic creature can be reduced to a pile of bones, feathers and plastic due to our greed is shameful.
Over the six weeks I have been researching for and working on this film, I have been conscious of the point made in a tutorial. Where do I position this film? Is it a campaign film or is a piece of art in its own right? I would like to address this issue. I think versions 1,2 and 3 were more educational in tone. That is why I have removed the text and tried to communicate the same message using strong images which speak for themselves.
If one defines Art as a personal interpretation of our culture in whichever form that takes, be it photography, painting, dance, theatre or film, then my piece is very definitely in this category. It is also true that this film imparts information. It questions the use of TV advertising. It questions our selfish consumption.
I am using my film to communicate an environmental message in the hope that it will provoke some sort of response in the viewer that challenges them to modify their consumer habits, or at least question the way that society disposes of its waste.
If my film has the desired effect then I don't mind how you categorise it.
I am tweaking the length of some clips to make them more punchy. I have synchronised the industrial clips perfectly to the music.
I have been watching more wildlife documentaries on the Albatross. I have found some images which I consider to be more appealing. Instead of the Albatross seeming remote in a far-off ocean, these were filmed landing and taking off from an island off Tazmania. The images of the Albatross are much closer and you can only look in awe at their size and complete grace with which they soar and float in the breeze. You can see their faces and you actually feel some connection with them. You certainly envy their flying ability.
These images contrast sharply with the images of the decaying Albatross corpses. How such a majestic creature can be reduced to a pile of bones, feathers and plastic due to our greed is shameful.
Over the six weeks I have been researching for and working on this film, I have been conscious of the point made in a tutorial. Where do I position this film? Is it a campaign film or is a piece of art in its own right? I would like to address this issue. I think versions 1,2 and 3 were more educational in tone. That is why I have removed the text and tried to communicate the same message using strong images which speak for themselves.
If one defines Art as a personal interpretation of our culture in whichever form that takes, be it photography, painting, dance, theatre or film, then my piece is very definitely in this category. It is also true that this film imparts information. It questions the use of TV advertising. It questions our selfish consumption.
I am using my film to communicate an environmental message in the hope that it will provoke some sort of response in the viewer that challenges them to modify their consumer habits, or at least question the way that society disposes of its waste.
I am taking an issue which is having a long-term devastating effect upon the world we all inhabit and opening up a dialogue.
Isn't it the role of the artist to stop us in our tracks and make us question why?
Unlike the scientist who is obliged to be objective, artistic licence allows me to use my emotional response to highlight a social issue.
Someone commented, 'First and foremost this film evokes a visceral emotional response which then engages the intellect.' This confirmed for me that I had achieved what I set out to do. What sets my film apart from purely an environmental documentary is that I am using wildlife footage and environmental footage combined with poetry, all synchronised with orchestral music to convey my environmental message.If my film has the desired effect then I don't mind how you categorise it.
Tuesday 3 May 2011
A final collaborative Art project
In the run-up to our Final Degree Show I shall continue to edit my film until I am satisfied with the final piece. Easier said than done with a leg in plaster. The editing studio at King Edward V1 Handsworth School is on the second floor and is not wheelchair accessible. There are two flights of ten steps to negotiate. What choice do I have? I had to get up there. I lowered myself onto the first step and then shuffled up the first flight on my bottom. At the landing I scooted along then raised myself onto the bottom step of the second flight. Once at the top I lifted myself onto an office chair with castors and, with help, wheeled myself into the studio. Tiring but worth it.
I took up where I had left off with my film before Easter. It is good to see it with fresh eyes after a break.
I have made some subtle changes. I have been looking at tv commercials on the internet for 'life-enhancing' consumer products. Bottled water is an obvious choice. Plastic bottles spell disaster for the environment. I have combined the Evian water babies advert with a clip of marine plastic litter. They juxtapose well. In addition I have merged a clip from a Huggies disposable nappies commercial with an image of a disposable nappy floating in the sea. Those 6 seconds of film took me two hours to edit. I am now looking at appropriate places in the film to insert lines from the poem 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner'
I was in the process of editing when Nick, Head of Art came in from his office next door. He was about to leave for the day. I asked him if he could spare 3 minutes. He watched the film and his reaction was very encouraging. He said the images of the alabatross corpses reminded him of fossils. If they were dug up in years to come, people would ask, 'what are those coloured objects, they aren't bones?' They would be shocked to discover that they are plastic that is not biodegradable. It was then that I told Nick that it is with that in mind that I am producing this film as I intend to use it as the basis for an art workshop. He said he would be happy for me to use it with his classes. We discussed the students using man-made plastic litter to create an organic sculpture. If I come up with a scheme of work, Nick will provide the students.
I was so thrilled. It will be an opportunity to use my film as a catalyst for some artwork and use this group as a sounding board. Just the good news I need to kick-start my final phase of my degree work.
.
I took up where I had left off with my film before Easter. It is good to see it with fresh eyes after a break.
I have made some subtle changes. I have been looking at tv commercials on the internet for 'life-enhancing' consumer products. Bottled water is an obvious choice. Plastic bottles spell disaster for the environment. I have combined the Evian water babies advert with a clip of marine plastic litter. They juxtapose well. In addition I have merged a clip from a Huggies disposable nappies commercial with an image of a disposable nappy floating in the sea. Those 6 seconds of film took me two hours to edit. I am now looking at appropriate places in the film to insert lines from the poem 'The Rime of the Ancient Mariner'
I was in the process of editing when Nick, Head of Art came in from his office next door. He was about to leave for the day. I asked him if he could spare 3 minutes. He watched the film and his reaction was very encouraging. He said the images of the alabatross corpses reminded him of fossils. If they were dug up in years to come, people would ask, 'what are those coloured objects, they aren't bones?' They would be shocked to discover that they are plastic that is not biodegradable. It was then that I told Nick that it is with that in mind that I am producing this film as I intend to use it as the basis for an art workshop. He said he would be happy for me to use it with his classes. We discussed the students using man-made plastic litter to create an organic sculpture. If I come up with a scheme of work, Nick will provide the students.
I was so thrilled. It will be an opportunity to use my film as a catalyst for some artwork and use this group as a sounding board. Just the good news I need to kick-start my final phase of my degree work.
.
Run-up to Final Degree Show
College resumed today. We had a group briefing. I was given a lift and I transported my buggie so that I could get about the corridors. It was nice to see everyone and we were given the relevant dates for the show build/install and final assessment.
I have been feeling a bit low since breaking my ankle as I feel I will finish my degree with a whimper and not a bang. I want to be part of the student atmosphere in the run-up to the Final Show but find myself unable to take part in anything constructive. I left college feeling a bit flat.
I have been feeling a bit low since breaking my ankle as I feel I will finish my degree with a whimper and not a bang. I want to be part of the student atmosphere in the run-up to the Final Show but find myself unable to take part in anything constructive. I left college feeling a bit flat.
Wednesday 27 April 2011
Langoustines affected by plastic litter
Since breaking my ankle, I have had a lot of sleepless nights because my leg aches and it is difficult to get comfortable in bed. I listened to Farming Today on Radio 4 at dawn this morning. They had a piece about langoustines in the waters to the north of Scotland being affected by the ingestion of plastic filaments from ropes and nets used by fishing boats. The scientists carrying out the survey were shocked at the amount of plastic particles present in the gut of these crustaceans. They would need to research further to discover if this plastic enters our food chain.
I find it interesting that this problem is encroaching closer to home. It is not only confined to the distant North Atlantic.
I find it interesting that this problem is encroaching closer to home. It is not only confined to the distant North Atlantic.
Saturday 23 April 2011
Litter Artists
It is amazing what art can be created from litter! That is the only medium used by some artists. When I wrapped my full-sized tree on Bournville Green (see Purple goes Bournville Green post), I used Cadbury Dairy Milk foil wrap. This wrap is biodegradable and I wanted to raise public awareness about Cadbury's environmental policy. Those concerned with the environment are keen to encourage people to reduce, re-use, recycle. Litter Art is the perfect vehicle for this.
Have a look at some of the work of Litter Artists below.
Have a look at some of the work of Litter Artists below.
Feedback for Albatross film
It is always useful to have feedback about work from non-artists as well as artists. They read it using the filters they have developed for their own professional field. I have welcomed the feedback I received from my tutors and fellow art students. I asked two friends, Dr. Raynor Shaw a geologist recently returned from Hong Kong working for the Geological Survey and his wife, Janice a dietician for their comments.
Music and lyrics - strong, positive contribution to piece.
Visual images - powerful, 'stomach churning'
- loved the swimmer/albatross image
Text - possibly more to explain links but reduced to one sentence
Ideas conveyed - 'why do we produce so much waste?
- very few people ever see an albatross yet we touch upon its daily life
- we are seduced into buying 'life-enhancing' consumer products without question
- like inclusion of Ancient Mariner. Issue of redemption, atonement, punishment
Conclusion - Several strands going on within film. Would want to watch it several times to catch all the nuances. It does make you question personal consumer habits.
My comments - I am pleased that the intended message was communicated. I acknowledge their comment about text and were this purely an educational film, this would be valid. However, as I am appealing to an artistic audience I want to offer the opportunity to draw your own conclusions. 'Less is more'. I find it really fascinating to hear other peoples thoughts. No wonder film makers show their films to a trial audience to test their reaction. This could be the difference between a blockbuster and a flop.
Raynor and Janice had to sing for their supper again last night. I played the Royal Philharmonic rendition of 'Under Pressure' as the backing track to my film. The overwhelming reaction was that I keep the Bowie/Queen version. It is stronger, punchier, more rythmic and they felt the lyrics contribute to the overall impact of the piece. Useful feedback.
Norma and Jim were my next critics. They commented that the film changes from beauty in the opening clips to horror when you see the landfill sites. They said that it is sad and frightening and it brings home to you how you only think of your little bit of rubbish, forgetting how it contributes to the bigger picture. They were stagggered by the sheer quantity of marine litter. They found the extent of mass consumption obscene.
Music and lyrics - strong, positive contribution to piece.
Visual images - powerful, 'stomach churning'
- loved the swimmer/albatross image
Text - possibly more to explain links but reduced to one sentence
Ideas conveyed - 'why do we produce so much waste?
- very few people ever see an albatross yet we touch upon its daily life
- we are seduced into buying 'life-enhancing' consumer products without question
- like inclusion of Ancient Mariner. Issue of redemption, atonement, punishment
Conclusion - Several strands going on within film. Would want to watch it several times to catch all the nuances. It does make you question personal consumer habits.
My comments - I am pleased that the intended message was communicated. I acknowledge their comment about text and were this purely an educational film, this would be valid. However, as I am appealing to an artistic audience I want to offer the opportunity to draw your own conclusions. 'Less is more'. I find it really fascinating to hear other peoples thoughts. No wonder film makers show their films to a trial audience to test their reaction. This could be the difference between a blockbuster and a flop.
Raynor and Janice had to sing for their supper again last night. I played the Royal Philharmonic rendition of 'Under Pressure' as the backing track to my film. The overwhelming reaction was that I keep the Bowie/Queen version. It is stronger, punchier, more rythmic and they felt the lyrics contribute to the overall impact of the piece. Useful feedback.
Norma and Jim were my next critics. They commented that the film changes from beauty in the opening clips to horror when you see the landfill sites. They said that it is sad and frightening and it brings home to you how you only think of your little bit of rubbish, forgetting how it contributes to the bigger picture. They were stagggered by the sheer quantity of marine litter. They found the extent of mass consumption obscene.
Recology S.F.
The United States is always ahead of the game. It is the same for recycling. I have found a recycling centre located in San Francisco called Recology. It is a huge recycling centre which combines an artists-in-residence programme on site. Artists are invited to use any of the junk at the centre for their artistic projects. What a great idea! Could it catch on here?
The site comprises 44 acres including artists' studios, a sculpture garden and conducts public tours. It's intention is to raise public awareness about recycling.
www.recologysf.com/AIR
The site comprises 44 acres including artists' studios, a sculpture garden and conducts public tours. It's intention is to raise public awareness about recycling.
www.recologysf.com/AIR
Monday 18 April 2011
Back on the radar
I have been off for a while. I am now back - with a broken ankle! I am wearing a cast up to the knee in the hope that my ankle bones will align without resorting to an op. If this isn't the case, then I will require an op.
Fortunately, with my final piece being a film, I can complete this sitting down. It's all very inconvenient with the Final Show looming on the horizon. When is a convenient time to break your ankle?
Fortunately, with my final piece being a film, I can complete this sitting down. It's all very inconvenient with the Final Show looming on the horizon. When is a convenient time to break your ankle?
Sunday 17 April 2011
New initiatives in the canteen at King Edward V1 Handsworth School
During my research of marine litter, it really hit home that the efforts we make to reduce waste and recycle on a local level have a huge impact on litter reduction globally. When there is such a huge environmental problem it is difficult to know where to start. We cannot save the world all at once. It has taken years for this problem to accumulate and it will take years to reduce it, but what option do we have if we don't want our grandchildren to be waist-high in rubbish? The important thing is to stop creating all this unecessary rubbish in the first place.
At the same time that I was researching this problem, Miss Insch, Headmistress at King Edward V1 School, Handsworth was on a litter drive. She had noticed an increase in litter in the school grounds. The canteen was the source for a lot of it. Empty salt packets littered the area outside the canteen, plastic straws were strewn around the field and the most annoying litter of all was little plastic stirrers which appeared everywhere. They look like mini ladders and are apparently used to stir coffee and tea. I have never seen a pupil drinking coffee or tea. Why can't they use a spoon and leave it to be washed?
Miss Insch arranged for me to meet the catering Manager, Mrs Rogers. We discussed the amount of unecessary plastic waste created by the canteen. She was very receptive and had had the very same discussion with Birmingham City Council. They had assured her that every effort was made to recycle as much plastic waste as possible. She didn't feel that she received very detailed information about just what happens to the litter once it has been collected. When I told her just how much plastic is NOT recyclable she was very concerned. Once I have graduated I will be looking into this problem further and I hope to get some answers from Birmingham City Council regarding the destination of our local plastic products for recycling. I will also be discussing with the catering suppliers the alternative options to plastic packaging for sandwiches - another frequent visitor to the school field.
At the same time that I was researching this problem, Miss Insch, Headmistress at King Edward V1 School, Handsworth was on a litter drive. She had noticed an increase in litter in the school grounds. The canteen was the source for a lot of it. Empty salt packets littered the area outside the canteen, plastic straws were strewn around the field and the most annoying litter of all was little plastic stirrers which appeared everywhere. They look like mini ladders and are apparently used to stir coffee and tea. I have never seen a pupil drinking coffee or tea. Why can't they use a spoon and leave it to be washed?
Miss Insch arranged for me to meet the catering Manager, Mrs Rogers. We discussed the amount of unecessary plastic waste created by the canteen. She was very receptive and had had the very same discussion with Birmingham City Council. They had assured her that every effort was made to recycle as much plastic waste as possible. She didn't feel that she received very detailed information about just what happens to the litter once it has been collected. When I told her just how much plastic is NOT recyclable she was very concerned. Once I have graduated I will be looking into this problem further and I hope to get some answers from Birmingham City Council regarding the destination of our local plastic products for recycling. I will also be discussing with the catering suppliers the alternative options to plastic packaging for sandwiches - another frequent visitor to the school field.
Fairtrade Fortnight bunting
Fairtrade Fortnight took place this year from 28Feb - 13 March. I worked with King Edward V1 School, Handsworth on making a bunting. Working with years 7, 8 and 12 and in collaboration with Nick Bassett, Head of Art, we produced two hundred individual flags to create a bunting.
It was part of a national attempt to beat the Guinness world record for the longest bunting which currently stands at 2,696 metres.The girls decorated the flags, which we then strung together to create buntings to stretch across the archways along the main corridor. It really brightened up the corridor. The bunting has since been sent off to Fairtrade to be counted as part of the record bid. The Fairtrade target is 4.550 metres.
Saturday 16 April 2011
Tuesday 5 April 2011
Tutorial feedback
I had a group tutorial yesterday. We had to present our artwork to fellow students and five tutors. Tutorials are always nervewracking as you just don't know how your work will be received. My artwork consists of a film about marine pollution and its effect on the Albatross population and an aquarium filled with plastic litter.
I played my 3:54 minute film to my group. I received a very encouraging response. Several students were moved to tears. I knew my film contained a hard-hitting message but I have been working on it so intensely that I have lost sight of the impact it has on first-time viewers. The feedback I received was in stark contrast to the initial reaction of my personal tutor when I showed her my first version. 'Not another environmentalist banging on about how we consume too much plastic which kills marine life - bad!' I abandoned my original choice of soundtrack after her comment, ' backed with some dreary soundtrack from the 60's', (sorry Fleetwood Mac!). I ploughed through a lot of music, finally selecting 'Under Pressure' by Bowie and Queen. I chose this because the lyrics really underline my message. The music begins slowly, matching the pace of the Albatross in flight, then it speeds up, matching the images of a factory production line, then builds up to a crescendo which punctuates the images of dead juvenile albatrosses on screen.
The response from the tutors was encouraging. They indicated that the film communicated my environmental message and they liked the inclusion of images from a tv advert. The general consensus was that the aquarium was superfluous as the film encapsulated the message alone. For me this meant saving a fortune on the cost of a large aquarium which I was intending to purchase, However, I am disappointed that I will not be producing an installation. I had envisaged a large glass aquarium spewing out plastic litter.
I am really looking forward to finalising my film because it has had the desired effect and all my hours of trawling through environmental footage and tv ads has been worthwhile. I can see that the film stands on its own and does not need the tank full of plastic litter to underline the message.
I played my 3:54 minute film to my group. I received a very encouraging response. Several students were moved to tears. I knew my film contained a hard-hitting message but I have been working on it so intensely that I have lost sight of the impact it has on first-time viewers. The feedback I received was in stark contrast to the initial reaction of my personal tutor when I showed her my first version. 'Not another environmentalist banging on about how we consume too much plastic which kills marine life - bad!' I abandoned my original choice of soundtrack after her comment, ' backed with some dreary soundtrack from the 60's', (sorry Fleetwood Mac!). I ploughed through a lot of music, finally selecting 'Under Pressure' by Bowie and Queen. I chose this because the lyrics really underline my message. The music begins slowly, matching the pace of the Albatross in flight, then it speeds up, matching the images of a factory production line, then builds up to a crescendo which punctuates the images of dead juvenile albatrosses on screen.
The response from the tutors was encouraging. They indicated that the film communicated my environmental message and they liked the inclusion of images from a tv advert. The general consensus was that the aquarium was superfluous as the film encapsulated the message alone. For me this meant saving a fortune on the cost of a large aquarium which I was intending to purchase, However, I am disappointed that I will not be producing an installation. I had envisaged a large glass aquarium spewing out plastic litter.
I am really looking forward to finalising my film because it has had the desired effect and all my hours of trawling through environmental footage and tv ads has been worthwhile. I can see that the film stands on its own and does not need the tank full of plastic litter to underline the message.
Wednesday 23 March 2011
The effect of marine litter on the Albatross.
I have singled out the plight of the Albatross as it is the victim of marine litter in nearly every ocean in the world, showing that marine litter is a world-wide problem. I have also chosen it as it is the largest of birds species Even the smalllest of the species has a wingspan of 6 feet. The Wandering and Royal albatrosses have an 11 feet wingspan. They weigh twice that of a bald eagle - 26lbs - yet fly effortlessly.
The albatross spends 95% of its lifetime flying out at sea. They only use land for breeding. They breed on remote islands thousands of miles from any continent.
An albatross may make a round trip of several thousand miles taking up to two weeks to return to feed its chick.
Earth orbiting satellites have tracked their amazing feats of flight. They can cover distances equal to flying around the Earth at the Equator 3 times in a year. A fifty year old albatross will have flown easily 3.7 million miles.
Albatrosses live so far from humankind yet their destiny is dependent upon our actions.
In ancient times the sighting of an albatross was a warning of a storm up ahead. They were a talisman aginst the fury of the sea. They symbolise the reincarnated spirit of drowned sailors.
In Samuel P. Coleridge's 'Rime of the Ancient Mariner', the mariner shoots the albatross that had been following the ship. The winds drop and his ship fails to make headway.
'And I had done a hellish thing
And it would work 'em woe:
For all averred, I had killed the bird
That made the breeze to blow.'
The sailors slowly die of thirst.
'Water, water everywhere,
Nor any drop to drink'
This poem, although written in 1798, seems so prophetic because we are surrounded by oceans which we are slowly making unfit for marine animal survival. Our oceans are full of plastic debris. It does not biodegrade, it is not 'disposable' and it doesn't go 'away'. Instead it breaks down into minute floating fragments which mimic small fish and plankton. The Albatross feeds on these brightly coloured plastic fragments until its digestive tract is blocked and it slowly starves to death. Only two ounces of plastic is lethal.
We do not kill albatrosses deliberately. Most of us have no idea what is floating around there in the oceans. That is the problem. Once we realize that none of the plastic bottle tops we use every single day are recyclable, that a lot of the plastic packaging we buy in our weekly shop is not recyclable, we start to look at packaging in a completely new way.
It is difficult to make the connection between a plastic bottle top and a species of bird threatened with extinction. The film I am working on is intended to do just that. I want to show how the ubiquitous plastic bottle top is lethal once it finds its way to the sea. All I ask is that you suspend your judgement temporarily and let me show you what I mean.
The albatross spends 95% of its lifetime flying out at sea. They only use land for breeding. They breed on remote islands thousands of miles from any continent.
An albatross may make a round trip of several thousand miles taking up to two weeks to return to feed its chick.
Earth orbiting satellites have tracked their amazing feats of flight. They can cover distances equal to flying around the Earth at the Equator 3 times in a year. A fifty year old albatross will have flown easily 3.7 million miles.
Albatrosses live so far from humankind yet their destiny is dependent upon our actions.
In ancient times the sighting of an albatross was a warning of a storm up ahead. They were a talisman aginst the fury of the sea. They symbolise the reincarnated spirit of drowned sailors.
In Samuel P. Coleridge's 'Rime of the Ancient Mariner', the mariner shoots the albatross that had been following the ship. The winds drop and his ship fails to make headway.
'And I had done a hellish thing
And it would work 'em woe:
For all averred, I had killed the bird
That made the breeze to blow.'
The sailors slowly die of thirst.
'Water, water everywhere,
Nor any drop to drink'
This poem, although written in 1798, seems so prophetic because we are surrounded by oceans which we are slowly making unfit for marine animal survival. Our oceans are full of plastic debris. It does not biodegrade, it is not 'disposable' and it doesn't go 'away'. Instead it breaks down into minute floating fragments which mimic small fish and plankton. The Albatross feeds on these brightly coloured plastic fragments until its digestive tract is blocked and it slowly starves to death. Only two ounces of plastic is lethal.
We do not kill albatrosses deliberately. Most of us have no idea what is floating around there in the oceans. That is the problem. Once we realize that none of the plastic bottle tops we use every single day are recyclable, that a lot of the plastic packaging we buy in our weekly shop is not recyclable, we start to look at packaging in a completely new way.
It is difficult to make the connection between a plastic bottle top and a species of bird threatened with extinction. The film I am working on is intended to do just that. I want to show how the ubiquitous plastic bottle top is lethal once it finds its way to the sea. All I ask is that you suspend your judgement temporarily and let me show you what I mean.
Marine pollution
Do you recycle your plastic? Do you make the effort to wash out those plastic milk bottles, cosmetic bottles, household cleaning product containers, plastic cutlery etc etc? Do you go to the trouble of putting them in the recycle bin to be collected every fortnight? You are a conscientious householder. Do you ever wonder where they all go after collection?
Would it shock you to know that a massive amount of what you send away for 'recycling' ends up in the stomachs of marine wildlife, causing digestive blockages, starvation and a slow death? I thought I was environmentally aware but my eyes have been opened to the horrors of marine pollution. I'm not just referring to the British coast but in every ocean of the world. I do not claim to be an eco-warrier, but I am an eco- worrier and I think we all need to be. It's all very well chucking stuff away but, ask yourself, where is away?
Would it shock you to know that a massive amount of what you send away for 'recycling' ends up in the stomachs of marine wildlife, causing digestive blockages, starvation and a slow death? I thought I was environmentally aware but my eyes have been opened to the horrors of marine pollution. I'm not just referring to the British coast but in every ocean of the world. I do not claim to be an eco-warrier, but I am an eco- worrier and I think we all need to be. It's all very well chucking stuff away but, ask yourself, where is away?
Thursday 10 March 2011
Bournville Goes Green
A TREE on Bournville Village Green has been wrapped up in Cadbury Dairy Milk wrappers as part of an art project by Birmingham City University art student Danielle Roberts.
In partnership with Bournville Village Trust and Cadbury, Danielle is hoping to draw attention to environmental issues through her work. She said:
To show support for her project the Bournville Village Trust have allowed her to use the Village Green. Not only is the tree wrapped in chocolate wrapper foil but it is bathed in purple and green light at night.
The wrapped and lit tree will be on show from January 21st until the 28th.
Danielle is seeking to work with local schools on projects having previously worked with Bournville Junior School. To enquire about developing an environmental project or if you have any comments about the artwork contact Danielle at danielle789789@btinternet.com
http://bournvillevillage.com/bournville-all-wrapped-for-art-project/
http://www.bvt.org.uk/news-and-events/purple-goes-bournville-green
In partnership with Bournville Village Trust and Cadbury, Danielle is hoping to draw attention to environmental issues through her work. She said:
“I am impressed by Cadbury’s environmental policy, ‘Purple goes Green’ which has greatly reduced its carbon footprint by conserving energy and producing biodegradable wrap. If we collected up all the litter dropped around Bournville in a year, there would be enough to wrap a tree. We have to take seriously the need to recycle in order to conserve our unique environment for our young citizens.”
To show support for her project the Bournville Village Trust have allowed her to use the Village Green. Not only is the tree wrapped in chocolate wrapper foil but it is bathed in purple and green light at night.
The wrapped and lit tree will be on show from January 21st until the 28th.
Danielle is seeking to work with local schools on projects having previously worked with Bournville Junior School. To enquire about developing an environmental project or if you have any comments about the artwork contact Danielle at danielle789789@btinternet.com
http://bournvillevillage.com/bournville-all-wrapped-for-art-project/
http://www.bvt.org.uk/news-and-events/purple-goes-bournville-green
Artist's Statement
I am an environmental artist. My practice is concerned with the problem of litter and recycling. I am a final year BCU mature student on the BA (Hons) Art & Design course.
For my final I am compiling a film about the detrimental environmental effect of marine litter on wildlife, particularly the Albatross. My film questions the mindless consumption and disposal of plastic items, encouraged by advertising which bombards us in our own home via the television.
I want to go on to use my film as the basis for environmental art workshops with schools and community groups.
I invite you to follow my journey to my Final Degree Show in June 2011.
For my final I am compiling a film about the detrimental environmental effect of marine litter on wildlife, particularly the Albatross. My film questions the mindless consumption and disposal of plastic items, encouraged by advertising which bombards us in our own home via the television.
I want to go on to use my film as the basis for environmental art workshops with schools and community groups.
I invite you to follow my journey to my Final Degree Show in June 2011.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)