Research Direction: To explore how spatial practices in art, architecture and design can promote collective models for the development of artist-led institutions. To examine whether these practices can effectively address new cultural economies by engaging diverse publics and facilitating international discursive exchange for sustainability in artistic practices.
During my previous research secondment in Greece as part of the SpaceX Marie Curie Horizon 2020 program in 2023, I delved into transdisciplinary practices, connecting spatial practices with cultural sociology, cultural policy, and behavioural economics. My engagement with various artist-led organizations in Athens, including Pet Projects, Neo Cosmos, and Deo Projects in Chios, illuminated the potential for developing further exchanges that explore residency practices and their intersection with tourism. This endeavour aligns with my broader research goal of nurturing collective institutions.
The primary objective of this residency is to explore how spatial practices in art, architecture, and design foster public exchange and promote cohabitation within urban spaces. I aim to examine whether these practices can render new cultural economies by engaging diverse publics and facilitating international discursive exchange within communities.
The research would articulate and produce an evolving practice of collective artist-led institutions as public art. Through site and medium-specific interventions, working with a decentralized, distributed, and democratic network of people and core organisations across public, private, and charitable sectors, the research would unlock a previously untapped resource to develop sustainable artistic practices and policies for reform
Methodology:
My approach involves immersing myself in the vibrant cultural landscape of Athens, and collaborating with local artists, architects, designers, and community members. Through participatory workshops, interviews, and observational studies, I seek insights into the impact of spatial practices on societal dynamics and the potential for fostering inclusive environments.
Outcomes:
Development of programs in Athens addressing inclusive spatial practices, public exchange, and diversity promotion.
Creating an exchange platform between Athens and Northampton, culminating in presentations at both locations.
Integration of research findings and dialogue into the opening program of the new Arts Collective building in Northampton, scheduled for February 2025.
Production of a comprehensive syllabus and toolkit for international collective contemporary artist-led practice as part of a Book to be published by Routledge as part of the H2020 research programme.
As the joint Artistic Director and CEO at NN Contemporary Art, my practice involves reshaping governance structures to drive collaborative strategic directions. My deep involvement in a 4.7 million capital renovation project at NN Contemporary Art over the past three years is crucial. This project transforms NN Contemporary Art into an architectural Arts Collective with expansive studio, gallery, shop, community kitchen, and learning space facilities. The research program aligns with this ongoing project, offering an opportunity to shape the institution’s future direction. NN is not the recipient of capital monies but the end user of the facilities; therefore, testing and developing collective strategies with others is essential. This relies on my participation in various international networks. Engaging with diverse perspectives and collaborating with artists and organizations globally enriches artistic practices and fosters meaningful connections within the artistic community.
The project looks at new institutional models and focuses on developing programs in dialogue with specific questions around tourism, economies, refugee crisis and gentrification and looking at how the rise in Air b n b economies and the Golden Visa schemes in Athens are causing a threat to the sustainability of artist-led practices and organisations.