University of Central Lancashire   2007/2008

Jennie Cunningham

On entering the AA2A scheme, I initially wanted to experiment with making embossed prints from the highly textured oil paintings I produce with a view to working into the relief with other materials ie text, stitch and other miscellaneous objects to make diptych pieces of contrast and textural interest.

Feeling dissatisfied with the first prints I produced, I took time to re-think the themes within my work revisiting a film piece I recently produced to accompany and compliment a live orchestral performance of Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons. This proved to be a catalyst in consolidating a new body of work that culminates in a poetic multi disciplinary installation piece that metaphorically and ethereally combines print, film and sound offering an invitation to ponder spirituality sensibility with regard to conscience, sentiment, memory and truth in the 21st Century.

The work references world events reported in international newspapers from the London, Washington and New York Times of the Winter period of this year (21st Dec 07 the winter solstice to 30th March 08 start of British summer time) and juxtaposes these items against classic scriptural text in an installation of numerous sheets of paper that is suspended as to resemble the shape of an orchestra with a music stand placed in the centre. Film is projected into the installation and the experimental sound track is heard on headphones. By making additional use of film and sound in this installation an experience is created that has visual and sensory contrast and also requires an engagement with subconscious thought and feeling.

The AA2A scheme has allowed me to use print resources to take my work into a completely new and unexpected direction by combining print with film and sound. The material grant has helped realise the project for the piece to be included in the Liverpool International Artists exhibition at the Novas Contemporary Urban Centre, Liverpool during the Biennial 20.09.2008 - 30.11.2008.

I have also really enjoyed engaging with other AA2A artists, students and staff whilst on the scheme.