I came across various challenges during this unit, but one that was unforeseen was becoming drastically ill with my condition of FND, changing how I navigated utilising the tools available at university. As I value attending lectures, workshops and one-to ones in person, I found myself needing to stay resilient and organised to make adjustments so I could remain in the same spaces and have the same opportunities as my peers.
Once I became familiar with my new routines, I realised how much creative freedom was given to me during this project; the possibilities were endless, equally frightening and exciting me. In previous assignments, out of fear, I would begin to plan extensively, but with new growing challenges with my condition, I was not able to stay consistent with a plan as it was ever
changing, forcing me to adapt to each new obstacle. This taught me a unique perspective on the process of making animation, the growth of ideas weeks after the project proposal, and how this does not need to be daunting but can be thrilling.
I actively chose to work with sustainable resources during the experimental stage, as I knew I wanted to try a variety of techniques, utilise different workshops, and test different materials. This meant I needed to source excess materials, and it’s an excellent practice to use items that are already at my fingertips but have a little character rather than buy brand-new. Building
on this, the scrap pieces strangely always have better outcomes, as they typically have unique markings and shapes that would not otherwise be found.
Navigating new software always feels a little overwhelming as I have to retain information about what tools are available, along with how to use them and as the workshops are typically the duration of a lecture, I need in-depth notes from my study assistant, one-to-ones and the ability to approach a technician to get help in the future. Having to rely on a network of people can feel stressful at times, but overall, this network is exceptionally helpful, as I feel reassured that I will have support from tutors, technicians, my study assistant, and peers, which will enable me to progress on assignments.
Even though I did not plan my animation in detail, there was still extensive background preparation that took place to keep me rganised and ready for both the collaborative installation proposal and the submission deadline. By booking equipment, the rostrum and wood workshops at least a week in advance, I was able to feel at ease knowing I would have a dedicated time
slot to either shoot my animation or experiment. Retrieving materials beforehand enabled me to use my time wisely during these booking slots and to have a rough idea of what I wanted to do so that I could explain my goals to the technician team.
I enjoyed applying myself to this unit with an exploratory mindset, researching in-depth different topics and experimenting with various media along the way. By utilising the UAL library, I was able to consider different interpretations of cave paintings based on the author’s location and/or discoveries in that area. My findings were abundant, giving me a well-rounded I am exceptionally proud of my outcome and the lessons I have learnt whilst applying myself to this assignment; however continuous growth is essential to developing new skills and finding new approaches to your creative process. As such, I believe
I would benefit from an increase in primary research, specifically attending art galleries, art workshops/talks, exhibitions and festivals. When conducting research, I attended a Friday late at the V&A, which platformed a range of emerging artists through live performance, film, installation and debate.
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