From the offset, I knew that the Blue Sky Thinking unit x option was going to be a real challenge for myself, and I was right. I chose this unit out of curiosity of doing something new; the theory of 'blue sky thinking' and limitless ideas appealed as an exciting concept. I knew that this was something that I would never usually think of doing, instead using material/ physicality as a starting point for my projects, as that is what I am comfortable and familiar with.
During the introductory weeks of the college, I really enjoyed all of the workshops and guest lectures that I was able to attend. Hearing from a range of different artists/ designers meant being open to a number of perspectives and responses of working in the real world, not just those of a textile background.
Unit X is predominantly about collaboration. I was apprehensive in regards to group work, mainly because of how disastrous last year's unit x grouping turned out to be, however I have to say that this year has been the exact opposite. Working within a large group of independent, creative students obviously holds a lot of room for a variety of perspectives, means of working and characters. With so many voices, it is easy to feel lost and confused about what is going on/ who is doing what etc, which did happen a numerous amount of times over the course. Having to constantly communicate with one another, practically on a daily basis, is a very intense, tiring ask. Most days I felt completely drained, and in need of re-energising, in time for our next group meeting. Putting all of my effort into communication meant that I often felt that I was unable to get on with any of my own individual practice, which really comes down to having a lack of time management.
In terms of collaborative practice, overall I have really enjoyed working alongside students from Interactive Arts. It has been nice to see our differences in perspectives and how we go about tackling situations/ our projects. It was obvious that the group was split between makers and thinkers, however now that the unit has come to an end, and I've had time to reflect, I believe that each of us hold the qualities of both 'a thinker' and 'a maker', just not necessarily of equal weightings. As well as forming new connections in the art practice, I feel that we have all become really good friends too. Being in such an intense environment, we have been through a lot together. I found that it was nice to meet outside of university environment in order to connect and create better friendships (with the occasional night out to let off steam).
Reflecting on my own practice; I have questioned myself and my ability frequently in this unit which has been both difficult and upsetting. Overall, I have realised that my strengths are firmly set in 'making' and physicality; a skill that I unfortunately allowed to be pushed aside for a number of weeks. I have enjoyed the aspect of photography- it is a skill that I have always enjoyed using, however very rarely bring into my practice, as I am always so focused on stitch. This unit has opened my eyes to the idea that there is SO much more out there that I wouldn't normally think about researching into, ideas that I have only managed to spark through listening to other people's concepts and skill bases.
Alongside Unit X I have been taking part in work experience with artist, Alice Kettle. This is an ongoing work experience, that is opening a lot of possibilities for the future, something that I am really excited about (but am unfortunately unable to post on here at the moment). Working with Alice has meant I have been able to keep up with some embroidery work. Managing time between unit x and work experience opportunities has been similar to our Locating unit, managing time between our personal and live briefs- something that I have really enjoyed doing, and will most definitely continue to enjoy now that Unit X has come to an end.
Alongside Unit X I have been taking part in work experience with artist, Alice Kettle. This is an ongoing work experience, that is opening a lot of possibilities for the future, something that I am really excited about (but am unfortunately unable to post on here at the moment). Working with Alice has meant I have been able to keep up with some embroidery work. Managing time between unit x and work experience opportunities has been similar to our Locating unit, managing time between our personal and live briefs- something that I have really enjoyed doing, and will most definitely continue to enjoy now that Unit X has come to an end.