Final Thoughts - Professional Practice

This assignment has probably been the most rewarding of the three years at UCBC. The lecturing staff set the parameters of the assignment combining two previously individual modules. This combination in my mind really has worked. Using literature to produce a set of imagery and then put on a solo exhibition really adds depth to the final imagery, it has also been quite a challenge. The added complexity of working with other people who have a much greater knowledge on the subject matter  really focuses the mind.

The Metaphor

We all at times get those mental blocks, any exercise that helps creative thinking can only be good. The use of literature to inspire imagery is one such way to open the mind to the possibilities. Also working with a group of people you don't know, you need a common thread so all can participate. Using literature  that has inspired others provides opportunities that you would not normally consider.

Working with the Hospice

Working with the patients and staff at East Lancashire Hospice has been a pleasure and really uplifting. The positivity and support they have shown for this project really spurred me on. The literature, lyrics and poems they chose have that wonderful depth to them. If I had had more time on this assignment I would have liked to involve the patients and staff a bit more on the creative process. Discussing my ideas of how I had interpreted their words. This would have throw up more issues, as we all know any creative process is all about subjectivity. I hope in the future to work again with East Lancashire Hospice and  create a collection of images that have focused on a community arts theme that all have been involved.

The Exhibition

As previously stated in a previous blog this exhibition space was negotiated after the Hospice contacted me for one of my collection of images. I took this as  an opportunity to work with the staff and patients to create a photographic collection that would be exhibited at the Hospice and then permanently displayed thereafter. This week all images have been presented along with all  corresponding literature to why and how these images were created. The reception of these image has been very good. The Hospice feel that it would be in their interest to maximise the publicity of this project as Blackburn College has the Hospice as it's nominated charity. As things stand the Hospice want to take this project out into the community to emphasise what they are here for and raise money for the ongoing support of their patients. A venue and date is still to be arrange at the time of writing.

Summary

What have I learnt from this assignment? I have learnt when an opportunity arises to put on an exhibition - ask. Be mindful of how you  communicate and negotiate with your prospective host ensuring all aspects of the exhibition have been cleared. Many hands make light work - the Hospice has a full time promotions team, working with them on the publicity of this exhibition shows what is required to make it a successful show.