University of Wolverhampton   2008/2009

Rachel Grant

Soon after discovering that I had a place on the AA2A programme at Wolverhampton University, I found out that my proposal for a “Place, Space & Identity 2” commission had also been successful. With both programmes running at the same time I was able to use my time with AA2A to experiment with new techniques within the exciting context of a live, socially engaged, project. My AA2A project altered slightly both as a result of Place, Space & Identity and the discovery of facilities within the textiles department that I became particularly interested in. I began with the intention of exploring screen print, however on discovering the heat press I found that I could replicate techniques I was already using at home, but on a larger scale, and I also discovered new ones that were unique to the heat press. Having previously been restricted by the standard pre-stretched canvas available at art shops, AA2A enabled me to experiment with raw canvas. The wood shop was incredibly helpful in creating custom made stretchers which were too nice to put under the canvas and I began to work with the wooden frame and using the canvas as only a peripheral feature (See image) In addition I discovered that the department had a computerized sewing machine that could be programmed to stitch text and I was able to stitch people’s stories from the Place, Space & Identity project right into the canvas, adding to my already multi-layered approach to the surface of my work. The collection of work that I produced during the AA2A project was exhibited within a multi sensory installation within a terraced house that was awaiting demolition in Stoke-on-Trent. Following this the regeneration agency, Renew North Staffordshire, purchased the entire show for the permanent collection at their offices in the Civic Centre in Stoke. It was a very rewarding project that was made all the richer by the AA2A experience.