The Factory on Willow AiR
Q: How does the AiR program foster creative exchange and collaboration among artists, innovators and entrepreneurs? Can you share some examples of successful collaborations that have come from the program?
A: Our program is dedicated to cultivating a vibrant and dynamic exchange of creativity, particularly evident during our residency capstone showcases. These events provide artists with the spotlight to unveil their inspirations, showcase recent works and highlight the valuable networks forged during their residency.
Sculpture artist Ethan Townsend exemplifies the success of our program. Leveraging the resources and networks established at the Manchester Maker Space and the Millyard Museum, he adeptly utilized tools across disciplines such as carpentry, glasswork and loom-style weaving through collaborative efforts. The result was the realization of his ambitious 7-foot-tall vision—a modern reinterpretation of the looming process.
Q: How do artists in residence engage with the local community during their 12-week stay? Are there specific outreach or collaborative projects that have left a lasting impact?
A: In 2024, we are strategically focusing on expanding this particular facet of our program. Historically, we have curated Jeffersonian-style dinners, placing artists at the forefront, providing them with unique opportunities to engage with the local creative community. These engagements include active participation in art festivals, meetings, tours with Currier Museum personnel and visits to Kimball Jenkins.
Our commitment to fostering a strong sense of community for our visiting Artists-in-Residence (AiRs) extends beyond these established initiatives. We aim to deepen our relationships with other organizations, recognizing the significance of community-building in enhancing the overall residency experience.
Q: Could you elaborate on the capstone celebration and the significance of showcasing the artists' work either at The Factory or within the community? How has this contributed to the visibility and appreciation of the artists' creations?
A: Over the past two years, our program has proven to be particularly well-aligned with supporting emerging artists. The capstone celebration serves as a pivotal moment, often marking the first occasion when an artist is exclusively featured. This milestone demands thoughtful preparation and instills confidence, representing a significant stride in their personal and professional growth as they transition from emerging to establishing a professional practice.
The freedom afforded to artists to showcase their preferred art forms, coupled with the diverse range of artistic practices presented through our program, has consistently sustained interest from both local community members and organizations. This ongoing engagement underscores the program's ability to contribute meaningfully to the local creative landscape.
Q: Given that the program is privately funded, how crucial is community support, and in what ways can individuals or businesses contribute to the success of the program?
A: The privately funded nature of our program presents both advantages and challenges. On the positive side, it grants us the flexibility to make dynamic decisions swiftly, enhancing the Artists-in-Residence (AiR) experience with ease. However, this autonomy comes with a caveat – the cap on resources that could otherwise enhance each artist's tenure with us.
In recognition of this, we are proactively seeking sponsorships and partnerships. Collaborating with external entities will enable us to establish an optimal system and foster a vibrant community for our visiting artists, ensuring a more enriched and supportive environment.
Q: In the long term, how do you envision the impact of the AiR program on the artists who participate, the local creative community and the reputation of Manchester as a hub for artistic exchange?
A: The program, in its current iteration, serves as a foundational steppingstone for artists embarking on their journey towards establishing themselves as professionals. By welcoming artists from across the country and around the world, we contribute to the local community, showcasing Manchester as a hub of creative discourse beyond its historical and technological facets. As we continue to work with other creative organizations in Southern New Hampshire, we collectively strive to strengthen the perception of Manchester as a vibrant creative hub within the state.