Artist Sam Williams on her residency in QDT’s studio this summer
Emily Atkinson
When Quiet Down There asked me if I would like to use their space as a studio over the summer I was incredibly grateful as it came at a point when I was feeling a bit frustrated with the development of Proto-Play project for my DYCP (Developing Your Creative Practice) from Arts Council England. My current studio is in my flat, where I also work from home as a producer so I had been feeling really isolated and the work I was making had slowed down.
Chatting with Lucy about using the space as a summer residency, I mentioned how much art ‘stuff’ I had accumulated over the years. Like other artists I’m guilty of hoarding resources. I’ve had this roll of Ikea paper for more that 5 years, bought as a spare for a workshop. I was explaining how I’d had this slightly bonkers idea to start a 30 metre drawing…when she told me that they had the Ikea crank for the paper roll it just seemed like an idea I had to commit to.
Whilst working on my DYCP for Arts Council I’ve been exploring various ways to prototype ideas, so this would be a 30 metre continuous drawing, one hour at a time. Something to not be precious about, but to commit to consistently showing up for. Even on the days when I don’t believe in myself or my work. Each metre is an abstract interpretation of a playspace. Some are my own memories, some are specific places, others are notions of place, some were inspired by conversations with others. Over the course of September I am releasing a time-lapse video of me drawing on social media – @samwilliams.studio
The main body of my DYCP has been experimenting with different methods of prototyping scaleable sculpture. Taking sketches into 3D concepts and then making small models. I began with learning how to use laser cutting and 3D printing equipment at Build Brighton, making silicone moulds and then casting in jesmonite. Having the space to focus at Quiet Down There allowed me to expand into more complex ideas and make so many small sculptures – I really had the best summer!
