As we all start to adjust to a new normal, however unsettling, we’re also starting to find new ways to move forward. BC (before Covid-19) the majority of my income came from the workshops and participatory arts projects that I run (ran?) Now, of course, I’m unable to go out and about with my box of tricks so I’m having to find new ways to share my skills and my work.
One of my regular groups is Tullie Textiles at Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery in Carlisle. BC we met on the second Sunday of the month 1.30-3.30. I would choose an object from the museum’s collections to have a look at and I’d demonstrate a skill or technique that we could all have a go at and there would be a lot of chatting! I hope that AC (after Covid-19) we’ll be able to resume our activities but in the meantime I’m keen to keep the group going in a different format. This month I trialled Facebook Live for the first time to run a sort of session. In the morning I posted an object from the collection and a little stitch tutorial and then in the afternoon I went live so people could ask me questions and we could have a chat! There were a few technical issues and it’s obviously not the same as being with the group but it was lovely to hear from people and to feel connected. In May I’m going to attempt to do the session on Zoom. Watch my Facebook page for updates!
I’ve also been trying to brush up my video making skills (and by brush up I mean actually gain some skills.) I’ve been making some tutorials for simple crafts and I’m working my way up to making an online course, although I feel that may still be a little way off. I’ve also been staying a bit more within my comfort zone and making written tutorials for the Heathlands blog.
Another exciting venture is moving into running online workshops. In May (Saturday 16th) I’m going to be running my Beautiful Book Covers workshop using Zoom. It was meant to take place at RSPB Geltsdale in June but as that looks a little uncertain I’m going to try it as an online workshop and £2 from the sale of each ticket will be donated to the RSPB. Tickets are on sale now via Eventbrite and I’m also offering kits for the course for £10, although these will only be available until 2nd May in order to allow me time to get them posted out to you. I’m both excited and terrified about this workshop, it will be a new experience and I hope it will be a lot of fun!
Excitingly I’ve also finally felt able to get back into my studio and start making new work. I’ve always lamented not having enough studio time but it’s not just about time; it’s so much more about head space. I can’t say I haven’t had time recently but I have struggled to get in the right frame of mind so it feels really good to be able to get in there and get creating. Whilst I’ve been finding that work head space I’ve been having a good sort out of some of my work and it’s been good to look back and see how far I’ve come. I’ve rediscovered pieces I’d forgotten about and got enthused all over again about particular ways of working.
As I won’t be exhibiting anytime soon I’ve also been looking at different ways of selling my work. I’ve been adding items to my NuMonday shop and I’ve also been posting work on my Instagram feed as part of the excellent Artist Support Pledge, originated by Matthew Burrows. The idea is to offer work for sale for under £200 and once you’ve sold £1000 worth of work you pledge to buy a piece from another artist. It’s a really simple, generous and clever idea and lots of fabulous artists (including plenty from our region) are taking part, it’s well worth a look and seeing what’s on offer and it’s a great way to support artists at this time.
Until next month; enjoy the sunshine, remember to smile and look at lots of lovely art and stay safe!
Helen
