Sakurajima Experiment No.2

The peak of the volcano in the background and the huge quantity of the volcanic ash around the  base

Sakurajima Experiment No.1

DCIM100GOPRO

DCIM100GOPRO

First set of experiment Number one images. This was my first time using the compression mould on location. I was initially worried about how I was going to be able to make this work, it took some getting used to, working out the kinks in the methods of using it but I am happy with the results. These small temporal forms are part of my time on the Island, very discreet and unassuming really but mirrors my presence in a foreign land. I am out of place and finding my way in this alien location and leaving this little trace connects me to the space I’m inhabiting for a short period of time and will inevitably fade away shortly after its creation.

The Robert Callender International Residency for Young Artists

I am very excited and appreciative to be given this opportunity to travel to Japan and explore its culture and Landscape.

This residency was awarded to me by Lateral Labs in Kinghorn, Fife, where a part of this residency will take place. The first part will be held in Japan where I will be able to travel throughout the country exploring the culture and landscape of a country I’ve long wanted to visit.

This is the first year that this residency has implemented a nomadic element which I plan to make full use of, using the volcanic landscape as my map I will go from site to site, researching, making, documenting and recording with the intention to expand upon on my return.

The volcanic landscape of Japan really has caught my imagination. The notion of constant threat coupled with the need to continue living in close proximity is such an alien thought to me but common place in Japan. I’ve decided to explore these sites and communities to help me understand more and look at the materials produced, predominantly volcanic ash. I’ve constructed a steel ramming mould to use with the ash to create small compressed objects on location, leaving traces of my research and presence in situe.