This week, please meet Fran Gordon, a wonderful artist who is volunteering with our Aspire group.
‘I graduated from the Glasgow School of Art in June, and have since been working, volunteering, assisting with workshops and building on my practice as a visual artist in Glasgow. I was delighted to be awarded two residencies after graduating; a graduate residency at Hospitalfield Arts in Arbroath with eleven other recent graduates from Scottish art schools, and also at MANY Studios in the merchant city, where I have a studio with three other recent graduates, as part of their graduate residency programme.
I came to Project Ability not long after graduating and was immediately welcomed into the warmth of the community and productivity happening within the studios. I have been inspired by the enthusiasm for making art from both the staff and the artists here. Seeing directly how much the artists gain from making work has really shown me the importance of tutoring; from demonstrating different techniques to being supportive and encouraging of the works the artists are making. It has been a real pleasure to be able to impart my skills to help the artists with their individual ideas and works; I too have learnt so much from their practices. A real highlight for me has been seeing how much each artist has progressed over the eight-week programme, which has been a privilege to see unfold.
I have learnt so much from the fantastic staff, who each have their own bank of knowledge, experience and way of communicating ideas, skills and support to the artists. The opportunity for artists to be a part of this rich artistic community at Project Ability, to be given support, access to excellent materials and the encouragement from both staff and peers, is invaluable.
Volunteering with the Aspire programme at Project Ability has been a truly enjoyable and rewarding experience. It is a delight to be welcomed into the Project Ability community and to be able to support fellow artists.’
Thank you Fran!
