ROAR Residency Artist: Kevan Cadman

Unveiling Creativity

Step into the world of Kevan Cadman, where the intersection of art, music, and education converge to inspire and innovate. We asked Kevan to give us some insights on his artistic journey as he embarks on the ROAR thirdspace Residency. From his roots in South Yorkshire to the tranquil landscapes of The Outer Hebrides, Kevan brings a wealth of experience and a boundless passion for creativity to his practice. Join us as we uncover his motivations, aspirations, and plans for their residency, where the process of 'Making Making Visible' becomes a guiding principle for exploration and connection.

Can you share a bit about your background as an artist and musician, and how you arrived at this point in your career?

Absolutely. I've always been deeply involved in both art and music, even during my time as a primary school teacher. Over the years, I've explored various mediums, from jewellery-making to wood-carving, and I've found joy in expressing myself through poetry, short stories, and composing music. After dedicating three decades to teaching, I made the decision to focus on my own creative journey, which led me to secure a studio space at ROAR to further develop my craft in a supportive environment.

Can you tell us about your recent involvement with the 'Outline' art collective and your experiences working on the 'Living Layers' project?

Being part of the 'Outline' art collective has been incredibly enriching. Our recent project, 'Living Layers', funded by the Arts Council, allowed me to contribute two films, original music, and sculptural pieces. This collaborative effort was a testament to the power of artistic community and shared vision. It's been a rewarding experience to see our work come to life and engage with audiences.

How does your background in education influence your approach to art, particularly your desire to inspire through 'Making Making Visible'?

Teaching for over three decades instilled in me a deep desire to inspire creativity in others. 'Making Making Visible' is about showcasing the process behind the art, demystifying the creative journey. As a printmaker, I often find myself explaining my craft to those unfamiliar with it. This residency is an opportunity to invite people into my world, allowing them to witness the stages of printmaking firsthand and hopefully inspire them to explore their own creativity.

Can you elaborate on your plans for the residency, particularly your intention to produce a large print of the Minster and engage visitors in the carving and printing process?

My focus during the residency will be on producing a large-scale print of the Minster, offering visitors a glimpse into the intricacies of printmaking. I'll be periodically creating smaller prints to demonstrate the process in real-time, inviting viewers to engage with me and ask questions. While this might slow down the production process, it's an invaluable opportunity for dialogue and connection.

What do you hope visitors take away from experiencing your residency at the Minster?

My ultimate goal is to inspire others to explore their own creativity. By witnessing the printmaking process up close and engaging with me, I hope visitors feel empowered to embark on their own creative journeys. Additionally, I'm excited about the potential for the Minster's regular visitors to experiment with printmaking themselves, fostering a sense of community and artistic expression.

With a commitment to transparency and accessibility in his art, Kevan invites audiences to join him on his creative journey at the Minster, where the process of 'Making Making Visible' becomes an invitation to explore and connect with the world of printmaking.

You can find Kevan Making Making Visible at Rotherham Minster from 10-12 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays until the 25th of March.