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Red:Collective 2011

Hannah Wilson

03/01/11

a need, and a mission statement for this year.

Putting into words a mission statement for a creative collective is difficult. But, knowing that we must verbalise that; what we are and represent, highlights the very need that has caused us to be.
That’s where this starts - with the need.

When we aren’t challenged to share our opinions, beliefs, ideas and goals there seems to be a limit on what we can do. I think we can all pick a moment when someone has asked us about something you think you know; an idea, a belief, a goal - then forced to articulate it you’re left flailing. “What DO I believe? Suddenly this makes less sense than before… ” But, ultimately, the truth stands up against questioning, confusion is clarified and next time - you’re ready. Newness of ideas and deeper understanding happen when forced out of thought and into language. “When language is limited, I am thereby diminished too… We think because we have words, not the other way around. The more words we have the better we are able to think conceptually.” (1)

When I started art college I hated having to verbalize a visual practice - it seemed like if I had to explain it then it defeated the point. But, every time I did it I grew in my understanding of my own practice. I realised why the tutors made us explain our art - not to aid the viewer, but wholly for my own benefit.
Art colleges are amazing places where you are constantly surrounded by people who will ask about your work. In casual conversations, group critiques and in tutorials you are challenged continually and, in both skill and ideas, you can see dramatic growth in short periods of time. We don’t need to be scared of conversations that lead to questioning or critique - we need just that to strengthen our own understanding of what is good and where our hearts lie.
Then there is real conviction and, vitally, there is new passion that moves us to action.

There is a need. A need for space to discuss your ideas with people who may not have the answers, but might have some good questions. People who aren’t there to correct you – but to challenge you. A need for a group who are interested in your work and goals and who will support you in making that happen. A need for a support network when you feel you’ve hit a wall and need fresh ideas and motivation.

If you are a creative person and you don’t have that - Red:Collective simply aims to be your community. We love Belfast and its unique scene for art, design and music. We want to equip people to contribute and be formative in our culture.

Being that community will take different forms depending on your context – opportunities for group critique and encouragement, one-on-ones giving you the space to verbalise your ideas, exhibitions to work towards and growing a collection of resources to reflect on. We would love to hear what you need, and strive to support you. It’s in that dialogue that community works.

(1) Madeleine L’Engle, Walking on Water - Reflections on Faith and Art

Tags: Art, Belfast, Community, Workplace