ARTIST RESIDENCY: STILES BE

I am currently serving as the resident artist at Edmund Rice FLEXI School Davoren Park, and this project has been a dynamic and evolving journey since its inception in mid-2022.

Our project initially kicked off with an exciting venture: the Aerosol Art Wall Project. Collaborating closely with the students, we embarked on the creation of a captivating mural within the school premises. This mural was not merely a piece of art but a profound representation of the school's core values, beautifully expressed through the medium of aerosol art.

As we witnessed the enthusiasm and creativity flourish among the students during the mural project, we realized the potential for a more structured educational experience. This realization led to the introduction of the 'Aerosol Art and Design' subject. Within this subject, students have the opportunity to delve deeper into the world of design and explore the intricate techniques and artistry involved in spray can art. It has become a cornerstone of our project, fostering artistic growth and nurturing the talents of budding artists.

In the process of our collaboration with the school, we also identified a group of students who exhibited a strong inclination and aptitude for pursuing careers within the creative industries. To cater to their aspirations, we introduced 'Industry StART.' This specialized program is dedicated to mentoring and guiding a select group of students as they embark on a journey to explore the vast landscape of the creative industries. Through this initiative, students engage in projects that not only hone their artistic skills but also provide them with opportunities to generate income from their talents.

Our project at Edmund Rice FLEXI School Davoren Park is an ongoing and multifaceted endeavor. It encompasses artistic expression through aerosol art, structured education via the 'Aerosol Art and Design' subject, and the empowerment of aspiring creatives through the 'Industry StART' initiative. Together, these components create a holistic approach to fostering creativity, skill development, and potential career pathways within the realm of the arts and creative industries for the school's students. We are dedicated to continuing this transformative journey, nurturing the next generation of artists and creatives.

During two enriching terms at BANB-6, I had the privilege of collaborating with a handpicked group of 12 students spanning from years 4 to 6. Together, we embarked on an exhilarating journey to craft an awe-inspiring abstract expressionist mural that now graces the school's front campus.

In the initial term, we embarked on a creative odyssey, employing a series of engaging exercises tailored to nurture the innate artistic talents of these young minds. Through exploration with various artistic mediums, these budding artists gained invaluable experience, enabling them to uncover their artistic identities.

As their confidence in artistic self-expression flourished and their individual styles and techniques evolved, I transitioned our focus to the art of collaboration. Guiding these students through the intricacies of producing a large-scale mural, we fostered an environment where teamwork and creativity seamlessly intertwined.

Our journey was not limited to the confines of the classroom. We embarked on inspiring excursions to the Art Gallery of South Australia, allowing the students to draw inspiration from the vast world of art. Additionally, they had the privilege of exploring my solo exhibition, 'Actuality,' which was on display at the time, providing a firsthand glimpse into the realm of professional artistry.

The pinnacle of our collective effort materialized in the form of a 'freestyle' masterpiece. Guided by their burgeoning artistic intuition, the students painted with a sense of freedom and authenticity, layering their diverse flows and forms to construct an exciting and contemporary artwork. It's a testament to their growth as artists and their ability to bring their imaginations to life on the canvas.

Our time together at BANB-6 encapsulated the transformative power of art in education, fostering creativity, self-expression, and collaboration among these young minds. This experience not only adorned the school's front campus but also left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all involved.

In 2019, a remarkable collaboration unfolded between Playford International School, Northern Sound System (NSS), and the talented artist Stiles Be. This partnership resulted in the creation of an extraordinary mural on the exterior wall of Northern Sound System, representing a fusion of art, education, and community engagement.

At its core, this residency was a celebration of diversity and inclusion. Students from Playford International School participated in drawing workshops conducted on-site at NSS, where they were encouraged to express themselves creatively. Under the guidance of Stiles Be, these workshops led to the birth of a collection of unique characters, each reflecting the individuality and rich cultural backgrounds of the students.

These characters came together to form the heart of the mural. The artwork told a powerful visual story, where diversity was celebrated, and inclusion was championed. Each character was a testament to the beauty of embracing differences and fostering a sense of belonging. The mural served as a vibrant symbol of unity in the community, promoting understanding and respect among its members.

One of the most significant outcomes of this residency was the incredible team-building experience it provided for the students. Working together to create a mural that spanned the exterior wall of NSS was not only a lesson in artistic collaboration but also an exercise in developing communication skills and fostering a sense of camaraderie.

Moreover, the project allowed students to explore and express themselves artistically in a public space. Many discovered hidden talents, while others gained confidence in their artistic abilities. The mural became a canvas for self-expression, where each student's unique voice was heard and respected.

Beyond the boundaries of the school and the art studio, this residency provided a valuable opportunity for students to connect with the wider community. The mural, prominently displayed on the exterior wall of NSS, became a point of pride for both the students and the local community. Passersby were not only treated to a visually stunning piece of art but were also invited to engage with the story it told.

The mural became a catalyst for conversations about diversity and inclusion, igniting discussions about the importance of acceptance and unity. It served as a reminder that art has the power to transcend barriers and bring people together.

Throughout the residency, one element remained constant: fun. The students, under the mentorship of Stiles Be, had a blast bringing their characters to life on such a grand scale. The process of creating the mural was a joyful one, filled with laughter, creative energy, and a sense of accomplishment.

In retrospect, the Playford International & Northern Sound System artist residency with Stiles Be was more than just a mural. It was a transformative experience for everyone involved, a testament to the power of art to inspire, unite, and celebrate the beauty of diversity. This collaboration exemplified the profound impact that art can have on a community, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all those who had the privilege to witness it.