ROAR Residency Artist: Charlie Hill

Connecting with Nature and Community

We had the pleasure of chatting with Charlie Hill, one of the recipients of our ROAR Residency - Making Making Visible. We were able to delve into her artistic journey, her inspirations, and the plans she has for her time with us. Charlie brings a unique blend of community engagement, natural materials, and a passion for storytelling to her artistic practice.

Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your artistic background? What inspired you to pursue a career in the arts?

My artistic background revolves around community involvement, particularly with things like forest schools. I've always been drawn to working with people and natural materials, finding ways to connect to nature and each other through bushcraft, textiles, and making. I owe much of my inspiration to my parents, who encouraged me to simply pursue what I love. Being around supportive art college experiences and friends in the arts also fuelled my passion.

What drew you to apply for this particular residency opportunity?

I had been exploring residency options for some time, unsure of what exactly I was seeking. When I came across this opportunity, it felt like a perfect fit. The local aspect, the emphasis on community engagement, and the opportunity to share my craft resonated deeply with me. Plus, the straightforward approach of simply showing people the process of making appealed to me greatly.

Could you describe your artistic practice or style? What mediums do you typically work with?

My practice revolves around using accessible, everyday materials, particularly those found in nature or repurposed from everyday items. I focus on community assets, drawing from the resources and people around me. Natural materials, recycled elements, and techniques like weaving and coiling form the backbone of my work.

How do you approach the theme "Making Making Visible" in your work? What does this concept mean to you personally, and how does it intersect with your artistic practice?

"Making Making Visible" to me is about putting oneself out there, physically and metaphorically, engaging with the act of creation openly and visibly. It aligns perfectly with my practice of being out in nature, connecting with people, and sharing skills. For me, being visible means being present, actively making, and inviting others to join in the process.

During your residency, what specific projects or ideas do you plan to explore or develop?

I aim to work within a 30-minute radius of the residency location, utilising natural materials sourced from the area. I want to experiment with lightweight, sustainable approaches to my practice, exploring local materials and their properties. Additionally, I hope to engage with the community through workshops and displays of my work.

Are there any particular challenges or obstacles you anticipate encountering during your residency, and how do you plan to address them?

Interacting with people and finding ways to connect may pose challenges, but I'm eager to overcome them through openness and adaptability. Additionally, navigating permissions and logistics for certain aspects of my practice, like natural dyeing, will require careful planning and communication.

Are there any specific outcomes or goals you hope to achieve by the end of your residency?

I aim to reflect on what aspects of the residency bring me the most joy and fulfilment, allowing me to further refine my practice. I also hope to share my work with the community, whether through displays or workshops, and continue the conversation about accessibility and engagement in the arts.

How do you see your residency contributing to the broader artistic community or conversation, both locally and beyond?

I hope that my residency experience will demonstrate the accessibility and simplicity of creative expression, inspiring others to engage with art in meaningful ways. By emphasising community involvement and using everyday materials, I aim to contribute to a more inclusive and approachable artistic landscape.

With Charlie's infectious enthusiasm for nature, community, and creativity, her residency promises to be a journey of exploration, connection, and inspiration for all involved. We can't wait to see the wonders they bring to life during her time with us.