The ArtLink commission involved working on individual collaborations with staff and patients. This was a really interesting way of working, sharing ideas, creative concepts and getting to know one another so the finished product reflected all involved in the process.

One collaboration with local photographer SJ, was a visual exploration of escapism through art and music.  The collaboartion resulted in a temporary  exhibition  in a centre which offers mental health services in Edinburgh.

In conversation SJ stated why she chose the locations and what photography means to her. , “I chose these locations as they have strong leading lines. I find a certain peace and calm in these types of places and photography give me a sense of escapism. It allows me to focus on the moment and be creative. Photography has been a good outlet for me allowing me to express thoughts and feeling that I find hard to explain.”

On display are illustrations that I created in response to SJ’s story, particularly how she creates her own work, through a process where music plays an integral role. After SJ shared her playlist with me, I  created abstract ink drawings in response to certain pieces of music and the visual narratives they inspired.

Playlist:

Linkin Park – In the End

The Verve – The Drugs Don’t Work

Linkin Park – Numb

Panic! At the Disco – Nicotine

Stereophonics – Local Boy In the Photograph

U2 – Sometimes You Can’t Make It On Your Own

The Verve – Bitter Sweet Symphony

Oasis – Champagne Supernova

Radiohead – Creep

The Waterboys – The Whole of the Moon

U2 – With or Without You

Radiohead – High and Dry

Radiohead – No Surprises

Manic Street Preachers – If You Tolerate This Your Children Will Be Next

Puddle of Mudd – Blurry

Muse – Dead Inside

This collaboration is a development of work created for the Staff and Patient Open Show 2018, which is currently on display in the gallery at the Western General Hospital in Edinburgh. Newly commissioned by Artlink, I invited individuals to explore the theme of escapism through mark-making, line and pattern in composing works of art, bringing a linking thread through the overall exhibition.