University of Lincoln   2009/2010

Ruth O'Sullivan

The travels of Sir Joseph Banks

This year long project began with a professional development trip to Gotland, Sweden for the Krea Tov 2008 felt making symposium. The event hosted 76 participants from 11 countries. I had the opportunity to learn new skills from practising felt makers.

Over the year I have been researching the work of Sir Joseph Banks, local explorer and botanist by visiting Kew Gardens, London and the Natural History Museum archives. I will spend studio time developing felt work inspired by the botanical finds of Sir Joseph Banks and use the techniques learnt at Krea Tov 2008 in my practice.

I am developing commission work and creative ideas for participatory arts workshops. The project will culminate in 5 public engagement workshops in five key social settings and an exhibition at the Joseph Banks Conservatory in central Lincoln.

The AA2A scheme will allow me to develop printmaking techniques and create a body of prints that are inspired by the travels and finds of Sir Joseph Banks. I will explore through visual representation, the exciting and complex natures of plants from South America, Asia and Australia.

This access will allow me much sought after time to create, and use exciting printmaking facilities that I don't normally have personal access to.

I aim to produce fresh work in a medium that I love and will exhibit this at an exhibition at the Joseph Banks Conservatory and at the annual London Arts Fair.