This project has been an absolutely fantastic learning opportunity for me, and as I write this, I realise it’s the final blog post in this series. It has truly opened up so many new avenues.
While not all prints I made achieved the desired outcome, the process itself was a profound learning experience. I pushed the boundaries of my practice, gaining confidence in combining various artistic techniques.
The support from the VACMA Scotland bursary played a crucial role in the successful execution of the A Tapestry of Connection project by providing a material budget that facilitated extensive exploration and experimentation. The learning curve was notably steep, particularly with the precise nature of the photopolymer process, which necessitated numerous tests and adjustments
My fieldwork was a particular highlight, blessed with perfect weather – sunny and warm throughout. This ideal environment allowed me to make excellent connections with the eco-walkers, who generously let me photograph them. I learned so much about the locale, its rich traditions, the unique character of the place, and especially about the diverse plant life thriving on the bog moorland. This firsthand experience was invaluable in informing my artistic practice.
I can confidently say that I managed to achieve everything I set out to do. While there were certainly a lot of technical hurdles to overcome, perseverance paid off. The culmination of all this effort is a single, image, from which I’ve been able to create a small edition. This project truly pushed me to explore a new way of making my prints, challenging my previous methods and fostering a significant artistic evolution.
Nicola Neate 