New Openings for Canary Wharf Artists Residencies
Sustainability is key in any profession; this is no different for an artist. In a world where being an artist is ill perceived at times one must be resourceful and find ways of making ‘things’ happen. One of the ‘things’ that has become evident is becoming involved in a residency. As in everything in life residencies that are already well established and therefore have some standing professionally are extremely competitive and over subscribed. To say that this can be a lottery may be a little harsh but for an artist rejection is part and parcel of the occupation. With all this in mind, and armed with determination and a pragmatic approach I have been given a golden opportunity to build a residency in two empty rooms at Bank Street construction site offices, part of Canary Wharf Estate.
In May 2016, after talks with Canary Wharf Contractors at Bank Street Site, I was delighted to be able to offer a summer residency programme. Primarily this opportunity was offered to fellow emerging artists, my peer group, some of whom happen to also be students on MFA Fine Art at UAL Wimbledon College of Art. There were also others I knew from my BA at University of Kent. This was an amazing chance to participate in a three month residency at Bank Street Construction site offices and a delight to be able to share this with others. These spaces were very kindly offered Canary Wharf Construction.
The space was offered with the criteria set by Canary Wharf Construction that any work produced should be in response to Canary Wharf. The residency will start 6th July and runs until 30th September 2016.
With all this in mind, and armed with research and volunteer coordinator, Antony Dixon, we compiled an application process where artists would submit proposals for the duration of their residency.
