I enjoy the format of a residency, the chance to immerse myself creatively in a location or theme. Some residencies are for short, intense periods of a few days and others are for periods of time spread over weeks, months or even years. I enjoy the process of finding out about and celebrating the focus of the residency; through archival research, conversation, explorations, and so forth … and then on to imagining how findings can inspire an artwork. Or sometimes the process of the residency is the work itself, the artistic process of engagement is the outcome.

My residencies have been in a variety of situations and have inspired a range of responses, from a film about a hospital pharmacy to a room full of paper aeroplanes in an abandoned science museum or launching dozens of miniature parachutes into an office atrium through to an artist’s book (with magnifying glass) to guide readers along very short walks in a Cumbrian forest.

I would like to express a general note of thanks to host organisations for their willingness to embrace creative curiosity when they welcome artists into their lives. It is a great privilege to learn more about thes eplaces and their people and to celebrate them through my work.

Residencies include: Crichton Carbon Centre, Dumfries & Galloway (2023); Chrysalis Arts, Upper Wharfedale, Yorkshire (2011-12); Old Science Museum, Birmingham (2006-08); Gloucestershire Royal Hospital (2007); BBC Media Village, White City, London (2004); Grizedale Arts, Cumbria (2002); and Kent High Weald Project (2001).