ARTISTS TALKING

It is almost inevitable that the larger cities of the UK seem to dominate over the smaller areas, by their sheer size if nothing else. In the light of this it is essential that these smaller areas build links between each other, thus enabling them to strengthen their positions and networks. London for example wields a pre-eminence over the Southern region, drawing attention to its centre like a magnet, despite the fact that there is a great deal of activity within the region that needs to be recognised.

Proximity between cities provides a great opportunity to forge links where each relies on the other for support and progression. Distance or location should not restrict areas from engaging with each other and actively forming links and networks. A tree is no good with just one root, it relies on many roots for its stability and nourishment; artist communities need to spread their roots to add substance and weight to their vision. This form of active networking involves seeking out other artists and artist groups for collaboration, either through discourse or projects. It is surely one of the most effective and exciting ways of forming links with others, encouraging cities to build on their existing links and strengthen their shared contacts.

A sense of isolation can be detrimental to an artist’s practice, whereas interaction through a wide network of links allows feelings and concerns to be shared and addressed. Regular events to provide critical debate and conversation, already demonstrated within many cities, would provide a valuable step forward for their smaller counterparts, enabling them to strengthen their position and place within the UK arts scene. The NAN initiative is a great example of this support structure.

Certain pre-requisites are necessary for this strategy of networking to be successful. Cities must make a concerted effort to strengthen the links within their own communities initially, and then look further afield to other areas. A regular programme of conversation and discourse needs to be established to focus attentions and address prominent issues. Hopefully this will result in a series of relationships between artists and groups that will develop over time into a wide reaching support network of links. It seems to me that the question of proximity hinges on the understanding that geographic location is not the central issue; the essential element is the people you work with, and how you work with them to support one another.

This article is part of a specially commissioned set of writing resulting from Close proximity, a NAN event devised by Jonathan Swain and Helen Sloan that took place at New Greenham Arts in Berkshire, 21-22 May 2005.

NAN facilitates exchange, dialogue, and collaboration amongst visual artists, whatever their practice and location. It offers a focus for critical exchange and feedback and through research and mapping seeks to develop greater awareness of the value of artists’ initiatives and of their changing professional needs. For more information about NAN go to Networking networks or contact emilia.telese@a-n.co.uk