First monthly crit - discussion group

Yesterday we had the first of our monthly discussions/crits which went really well with a good turn out. This is a great opportunity for us to flag up any issues and interact with our peers. Everyone contributed no matter what stage they felt they were at.

A fascinating overview of all our thoughts, we discussed how we feel about Canary Wharf as individuals and artists. The threads of our work had many links and overlapping although we all have very different practices and are at different stages of our thoughts and research.

Sally and Keith from Arts & Events came to chat and listen about our work. They are very interested in continuing this dialogue with our monthly crits.

We also spent time discussing sharing skill sets...I had mentioned this idea in passing as a proposal. As an artist one has to have many different facets, assets and skill sets, many of which are essential but not always approached because apprehension and lack of experience prevents a forward path.

Mark started the ball rolling this week by using post it notes to flag up areas he felt he wanted help and advice on...we discussed some of these and contributed a few more topics...so far we have nothing concrete but Katharine has offered to do a workshop on presentation skills and public speaking. I can help with Photoshop and InDesign...this will be a really helpful and supportive way to utilise some of the time during the residency.

The session was a really useful and fun overview. It was a fantastic chance to express how we are all feeling and how we are able to support each other offering different perspectives and ideas. It was also a golden opportunity to flag up any concerns and see how the time on the residency can benefit all those involved. I am really looking forward to engaging more and more as other artists join us.