Maisy Timney and Jemima Mansell (left to right) have come to the end of their graduate residency. We asked them to reflect on their experience having a studio at KARST and presenting the work they developed over the residency in their Test Space.
How has having a studio at KARST changed how you work as an artist?
Maisy Timney: I developed a pattern of working in intense bursts, traveling to Plymouth for focused periods each week before stepping away and returning with a fresh perspective. This cycle has changed my approach, allowing me to start new paintings each time and make clearer decisions about my work. Without the input of tutors or peers, I’ve learned to trust my own instincts, which has been a really valuable experience and made my work feel more autobiographical.
Jemima Mansell: Having a studio at KARST has given me the freedom to develop my practice further since graduating. With the independence of having my own studio, I have adopted a looser way of working which puts more focus on process rather than outcome. This has excelled the rate at which I make work and encouraged me to be more explorative with the materials and methods I incorporate within my practice.
How was your experience of Test Space?
MT: Test Space was a valuable experience that allowed me to see my work outside the studio and in a formal setting. It was exciting to observe how the public engaged with my paintings and to gain insight from their questions and reactions. Seeing a selection of the paintings I made during the residency in Test Space gave me the perspective on how they function together as a series of finished works. Having support from technicians was really helpful in the installation, allowing me to present my work in a way I hadn’t done before.
JM: Test Space was critical for my work development as it gave me the opportunity to see how the visual language of my work changes from the studio to a white space. By giving the work space I was able to see what components of the work interested me the most and what I could do moving forward in my practice. I think having a Test Space rather than an exhibition was more beneficial as it took pressure off having to make work which is more resolved. Had there been a final exhibition rather than a test space, I think I would have felt more confined in what I was doing in the studio as I would have been making work to achieve a particular outcome.
What is next for your practice?
MT: I’m continuing to develop my painting practice, building on the experimentation and knowledge I gained while making at KARST. With a new studio lined up, I’m eager to see how this change in environment influences my work and leads to organic shifts in my approach. While the body of work I created at KARST will inform my next steps, I’m excited to explore new ideas and start a new series of paintings. My practice will also evolve in response to a new space and context.
JM: In the immediate future, I have plans to develop digital installations and video based work using programming software I have learnt during this residency, as I continue my research regarding the intimacy and vitality of technology. I am also currently searching for opportunities more local to me in Exeter to enable me to continue my practice as well as build networks in Exeter’s creative community as I have done in Plymouth.
What piece of advice would you give to the next set of KARST Graduate Residents?
MT: When you’re in the studio, try to fully focus on your practice without too many distractions – let it be the main thing occupying your mind. You don’t always need a set plan for what you’re going to make, and it’s important not to give yourself too many rules. The residency is a great opportunity to experiment, take risks, and enjoy the process of making.
JM: I would advise the next Graduate Residents to play with ideas as much as you can and not to focus on the outcome of the residency too much. Although It can be a bit daunting at first, you have the freedom to make whatever you want and a great studio to do it in, which is a really great position to be in!
