PhotoAccess and Plumwood Mountain are delighted to launch the Forest Stories artist residency program.
This program supports one photographic artist, or artist duo, to explore possibilities for creating visual narratives that respond to Plumwood Mountain, a unique conservation property located in the dense temperate rainforest to the south-east of Braidwood, NSW.
PhotoAccess is the ACT and region’s centre for contemporary photography, moving image and photo-media arts. Established in 1984, we are today a vibrant, non-profit visual arts centre supporting photographers and artists at all stages of their careers. Our program, based at the Manuka Arts Centre in Canberra, incorporates exhibitions, workshops, conversations, publications, residencies and access to darkroom and digital making spaces.
Plumwood Mountain is an independent conservation organisation managing the Plumwood Mountain property to protect its diverse ecology and to carry on the legacy and philosophy of environmental philosopher, Val Plumwood. An internationally recognised scholar, Plumwood lived for over thirty years in a stone cottage in a clearing in the forest on the mountain, producing works that continue to challenge us to understand and value such places and re-imagine our relationships with the more-than-human world.
This residency aims to:
- Create opportunities for artists working in still or moving images to develop bodies of culturally engaged and artistically adventurous new work;
- Support the development of visual ecological research/knowledge and image-centred narrative practice within the local region;
- Build connections and networks between artists, Plumwood Mountain and PhotoAccess, including creating opportunities for future collaborations;
- Extend public knowledge of, engagement with and support for Plumwood Mountain as a centre for creativity and conservation, with a focus on sharing the legacy of Val Plumwood;
- Grow PhotoAccess’ profile as a centre for contemporary, socially engaged image-making.
- Artists or artist duos working across image and sound are also encouraged to apply.
Artists or artist duos working across image and sound are also encouraged to apply.
The Forest Stories resident will receive:
- PhotoAccess membership for 12 months, including 3 months during the residency period of unlimited and extended access to PhotoAccess facilities, including the film developing lab, darkroom, library and digital suite;
- Support and mentorship from PhotoAccess staff (Wouter van de Voorde, Kirsten Wehner) and Plumwood Mountain artists and stewards (Natasha Fijn, Ruby Kammoora & Clancy Walker);
- Access to and accommodation at Plumwood Mountain for up to 10 days, including living/work space, utilities, basic household supplies and firewood (if required), as well as caretakers’ support for working in the property;
- A PhotoAccess Online Gallery feature showcasing their visual essay produced during their residency;
- Extensive promotion for their residency and residency outcomes through PhotoAccess’ and Plumwood’s media, networks and social media channels;
Residents should note that Plumwood Mountain accommodation is basic and living and working conditions can be challenging. Some knowledge of the Australian bush and prior camping experience is preferred.
The Forest Stories residency is open to any artist based within approximately 100 kms of either PhotoAccess or Plumwood Mountain.
