we grow in group

Working together this weekend with Mother Tree (photo by Annette Downs)

When a group of artists gather together in residency, several things can happen: the artists may experience a sense of competition or need to compare themselves with other participants. They may experience a sense of “I ‘m not good enough”, and even a sense of shame. BUT hopefully, they will experience a sense of euphoria, a sense of belonging and a sense of “coming home” to each other and their own practice.

It was the latter that rose quickly to the surface in Far North Queensland for a long weekend where we gathered in a peaceful and picturesque “school camp” atmosphere just outside of Cairns, generously organised and supported by Performing Lines, Cairns arts community and regional funding. Over a dozen glorious artists (musicians, composers, actors, theatre makers, writers, filmmakers, comedians, poets, puppeteers, visual artists, and researchers) came together to develop their new works, learn new skills and create working relationships with each other. There were three Mentors from our industry, as well as General Managers, Senior Producers, Heads of Departments and theatre leaders who all pitched in to create a powerful meeting of the minds, hearts and spirits.

The diverse group of artists were, in a word, sensational. The standard of work was exceptional. The spirit of the group was beautiful to witness. We worked together developing ideas, deepening friendships and enriching our practice.

We have all returned home now, where we will take time to reflect on our mentoring experience. As one of the mentors, I feel as though I have gained so much from these beautiful and generous artists, and it has restored my faith in our present world. It has also reawakened in me the power of art-making within our communities and how, when we support and nourish each other, we can be giants.

Thank you, artists,

Thank you, Performing Lines.

Thank you, Cairns.

Thank you to my astonishing colleagues who turned up, alongside the artists, and made this experience a brilliant and long-lasting one.