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Valuing Creativity

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A reflection of the IGNITE event “Valuing Creativity” by Peter R Smith

The aim of the IGNITE is to create a space for freelancers and creatives to share what they are passionate about. Taking the form of short talks from creative entrepreneurs and artists IGNITE is informal with direction shaped by discussion. Don’t forget to sign up to our next event… Salisbury 2035 – Shaping Our Future.

IGNITE Valuing Creativity enabled discussions about what creativity can bring to a variety of businesses, problems and people. Engaging with industry experts we explored how we can improve the value that creatives bring to projects:

  • What do you do that is of value?
  • What can we do as a collective to showcase the potential of our creative community?
  • What exactly is creativity and how does it arise?

Arguably at the route of all our activity is that we use creativity on many levels to continually make progress from one day to the next.  There seems to be a separation from the everyday creativity we use to get through our lives and the more concentrated act of creating art. A distinction which was reflected in the stories and journeys of those who came to speak. The enigmatic founder of Smash Creative, Bertie Coy, kicked off IGNITE by sharing his energy enthusiasm and personal lessons in understanding the power of creativity.

Making things happen

Bertie reflected on how his talent for marketing and the career and the successful life he had built for himself was sadly and swiftly consumed by success, the pressure and then closure of a previous business.  Bertie explained how his expectations had been dashed and how, having been hit for six by the world, he had been left to feel alone, lost at sea.

Without purpose and without direction Bertie could not seem to see a way back.  Then, without reason, other than it being sat on the table, Bertie spotted an old camera, dusted it off, and started taking snaps.  Beginning by photographing things around him, posting imagery about the things he loved – his lifestyle, his family, things he liked he began to find hope.

Without realising and without agenda Bertie discovered his art. His photos and posts gave him energy.  New life? His posts on Instagram were being noticed! Noticed not just by friends and family, but by an international brand – Converse (!?!) who soon commissioned him to create content of their own. Through his natural ability to create and communicate Bertie bounced his way back.  Bertie’s creative surge gave him a new career, a new business, a new purpose.

Bertie’s creativity now blossoms in a world hungry for original imagery to sell their products and promote whatever business they had. From adversity, creativity sparked a new beginning. One in which he can enthusiastically invest, one in which he can be his true self.  Find out more about Bertie here… SMASH CREATIVE

Valuing the everyday

Tim Scrace shared his experience lockdown. One, which we obviously all shared. Separated from so much of our normal lives you will recall how we all became more alert to the micro detail of the lives that were and always happening around us. Inevitably beginning again to explore our direct environment.

Tim walked us through the paths around his home, the river and the trees he had photographed and the pathways that ran through them. We all remembered the strangely beautiful weather which accompanied this devastating time. Coupled with the freedoms we had now, untethered from a daily commute and the grind of office life, Tim reflected on how he, as an Artist, might portray these moments, so easily lost.

Snapshots and photographs danced in front of us, reminding us of how there was a sense that from now on, everything would be different, and we would live more humanely, more deeply connected into our lives and the world around us. Light filled rivers and woods with paths idyllically winding through were tantalizing. Special moments captured of his daughter using the swing in their garden. His memories became ours and our own special times arose. We once again noticed the world around us. Valued the world, valued it through the images and the work we create.  Find out more about Tim here… TIM SCRACE

Feeling the fear and doing it anyway

Frankie Sinclair told the story of her latest business which had sprung out of circumstance and that everyday need, the need to make some money. In drawing quick sketches of her friends and family one day Frankie realised that she had a talent for being able to capture incredible likenesses of people in simple cartoon, almost doodle like drawings.

Off the back of this came the idea of portraying 30 people in 30 days. Approaching Sonder Coffee, a local coffee shop, Frankie offered booking slots for her experimental project. Feeling uncomfortable at first, she soon found her swing, her style, her confidence. It wasn’t too long before the slots were soon sold out.

We are often transformed in ways we wouldn’t have expected when we bring our creative work into our own world and the world of others. As clients valued her work, so she began to value her own.  Find out more about Frankie’s projects here… SHIMMY SHIM

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Watch out for our next post “AI and Creativity” and sign up to our next IGNITE event… https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ignite-salisbury-2035-tickets-578660137047

INTERVENTION

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10th/11th & 17th/18th September 11am-3pm

An exhibition by Tim Scrace ft. Judith Rodgers
Salisbury Art Trail 2022 Venue 12

Combining mixed media, VR & sculpture, events and artworks, INTERVENTION explores the contrast of action and inaction within our urban fabric. Intervention is a fully immersive experience that will enable you to see all too familiar streets, roads and landmarks from a completely different perspective.

INTERVENTION showcases a sculpture of transparent plates, mapping the lines of the city, introduces a series of physical layers whilst meandered charcoal drawings and watercolours set your mind free from the rigor of history and the built environment. The foundations of this yet to be explored virtual world are also presented in conceptual sketches and prints. 

INTERVENTION is being held at Scrace Architects offices at The Enterprise Network, The Old Fire Station, 2-4 Salt Lane, Salisbury SP1 1DU.  Directions are available on the contact page. For more information please contact us on 01722 658048 or using form here.

INTERVENTION VR takes you on an orange pathway to a landscaped skydeck where you walk amongst trees above moving cars, across rivers and between skyscrapers.  In this re-imagined version of a #peoplefriendlysalisbury a balloon station, an aqua-theatre, art galleries materialise as new structures and Stonehenge is relocated to a roundabout. Accessible either on your own mobile phone or on a state-of-the-art VR headset, Scrace Architects invite you to explore this vision of a future city and start your own re-imaginings.

The juxtaposition of environment, space and time within the realms of sublime 3D architecture provides a unique investigation of the city’s potential.  This project, part of the Salisbury Art Trail 2022, is the result of five years of development by artist Tim Scrace and his practice.  Tim, who has applied and developed this concept through the Design Visualisation course he lectures on at Solent University is excited about the possibilities of virtual and real space and the conversations and visionary context they hold.

“Over the past few years’ students have engaged directly with the artwork, enabling them to evolve their own projects and learn from integrating them in the urban realm.  I have been lucky to witness how this has added to and expanded the dialogue of an emerging virtual landscape.”

Judith Rodgers who is working in collaboration with the team on the exhibition responds with alternate perspectives of the local geography adding a sensory and landscape orientated layer to this exciting journey of possibilities.

Scrace Architects hope that INTERVENTION will offer the hope needed to encourage the city and its inhabitants to aspire to a bigger better yet more sustainable way of life. Bring your phones and be prepared to #seespacedifferently.

Cool (?) Beach Huts

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Over the past few years, the Solent University Beach Hut project has received praise from outside of the University for its industry awareness and practicality.  The Beach Hut project encourages students to design and build a beach hut in a team. Industry experts appreciate the lesson it offers in taking students quickly from the drawing board, to making, to realising their ideas in three dimensions.

Students have the desire and opportunity to make a real difference to our world. This year’s cohort was no different with students recognising the importance of limiting the amount of waste in construction. Student were even found one group drying the masking tape in order that they could be reused again. In a complex and often overbearing world simple lessons offer a valuable insight into how they can make a positive difference to combating climate change.

The sharing of industry knowledge is what is needed to enable the innovative changes necessary to make a tangible difference. The benefit of a Faculty of Creative Industries, Architecture and Engineering is that designers from different disciplines and art forms have the opportunity of working alongside one another. This environment enables chance encounters and cross-collaboration between subjects. This creative potential has recently been realised in the beach huts forming a set for photo shoot by the School of Fashion. Who knows they may yet feature on the front cover of Vogue(?).

Scrace Architects are keen to support this philosophy and the industry connections offered by Solent and recently provided a prize for the best design.  Tim Scrace, who lectures on the architecture and interior design courses presented the winners with their prize.  Hopefully the students will be making the most of the weather and enjoying their prize of fish and chips together in the sun.

Tim was really impressed with this years work observing;

“What a variety of different designs and inventions! I can certainly see myself comfortably “working from home” from each of these designs. From sliding doors, to rooflights, to the kitchen sink, each beach hut seems to have something to offer. The standard of design this year was so close that the winners were difficult to judge. The winners stood out because they worked so well as a team, creating something unique, a place to work as well as relax and unwind. A colourful design with a winning combination of ideas and reference.”

 

thoughts, words & dreams

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https://www.timscrace.com/book

‘thoughts, words & dreams’, the book, charts the journey of “This Too Will Pass” by Tim Scrace. Presented as a mindful compendium of hope in these troubled times this book offers insights into the creation of the artwork and preserves its interactions. To secure your limited edition book and support this venture please pre-order using the link above. Order now using link below to see whether your words of wisdom feature.

https://www.vannergallery.com/

‘thoughts, words & dreams’ the exhibition, combines the best of “This Too Will Pass,” a sculpture by Tim Scrace and “This is my Hope,” a photography competition run by Alabaré during lockdown. Drawing on the collective consciousness experienced by recent events. The fusion of these two projects promises to offer to a compelling reflection on our times and an opportunity to look forward to better.

The exhibition will run at The Vanner Gallery from Saturday 2nd – 9th July. The Vanner Gallery is located at 45 High Street in Salisbury SP1 2PB . Parking is available nearby at the neighbouring Lush House or Old George Mall car parks. Any queries please contact us at info@scracearchitects.co.uk

Profits from sales of this book will be put into a community fund. 50% will be used to support and build partnerships with local charities such as Alabaré, and 50% will provide access to art and architecture through creative workshops and artwork.

Keep an eye on social media and press for further details #TTWP #thoughtswordsdreams #TWD @timscrace @alabare @thevannergallery

The Power of Dominoes

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Recognising #Fridaysforfuture and a need to acknowledge climate change and the world around us the practice and friendly collaborators took some time out recently to see what might be required to accomplish more meaningful change.  Fresh from the IGNITE Climate & Cocktails event my head is still spinning with realistic optimism.  Here are some ideas to get us started:

One Domino …

First up we heard from Martha (11) who, inspired by Greta, in turn encouraged Elon Musk to “concentrate on sorting out our planet before starting on another??” Be sure to listen out for Martha’s contribution in an upcoming Architecture Made Simple episode.  Sophia then spoke about small changes we can all make in our homes and in our lifestyles which together contribute to bigger actual shifts.

Two Dominoes …

One of the key benefits of the IGNITE workshops is that we take the time stand back strategically from the business of our day-to-day lives and refocus.  Eva offered us the opportunity to join her and other stakeholders to join the Eco Hub, which serves to …

In this instance our presentations were interspersed with related activities and kinetic games. Rich Lloyd observed the potential we have as an individual’s (dominoes) to effect change. The group creation of a marble run (our own Rube Goldberg machine) encouraged us to recognise that, as a collective, all heading generally in the right direction, we might all eventually reach a connected and purposeful destination.

Three Dominoes …

Activities and discussions helped support the belief that in each of us making a positive change (no matter how seemingly futile) might lead to a positive outcome. Indeed, the biggest lesson of the day was in identifying the potential of geometric growth. The theory and assertion that in each of domino there is the potential to knock over a bigger domino, offered the hope that our little voice might someday become more powerful.

In connecting people and ideas we have the power to realise the unrealistic.  If we, as individuals, are being asked to change our lives dramatically, the least, we can expect is that larger companies, who often pretend to make good on their legacy, are held accountable for their actions as well as their inaction.

Time for a New Game

Whilst there is a clear positive impact from an individual response to meet our own net zero and balance our carbon footprint, Tim observed that it should not rest on us alone.   It is in the commercial power of companies where significant mitigation lies.  Rather than the individual we should be focusing our attention on the bigger players.  In reality, with just 90 companies responsible for 66% of historic carbon emissions (Heede 2016), we should be targeting their responsibility and wealth as a means of combatting the damage they have caused.

Playing Big

The question now is how to get to the policy and decision makers at the top to effect a change in ethos.  Perhaps the answers lie in dominoes?  Let us start by approaching and educating the closest domino to you on the effect they are having.  In time we will reach the shareholders and investors who can then lobby these companies to balance things up and encourage them as bigger dominoes to make the right choices.

Asked to add some positivity to proceedings Armin Ganguly assumed a realistic perspective. The question as to how to save the planet is not a fair assessment of the things “we should focus on has to save half the planet’’.  There is still time, we should see what we can do! As the great man says, #alwayslookup!

If you know someone who has power and influence then they are your next step to make that change.  Begin with the closest and biggest domino you can find.  Knock them over with the facts and offer them ideas about how they can help us all save what is left!

Make sure you don’t miss the next IGNITE event scheduled for Friday 16th September.

Wish I was at home for Christmas

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Only a week left to go to get everything sorted.  The presents organised, the food ordered, the house set for visitors (if we’re allowed them).  So why all the fuss? Why do we suddenly feel the need to get everything ready for the big day? Why is it so important?  What I find so interesting this year is that, even when we have spent much more time at home than usual, we seem more excited about the prospect of getting home for Christmas.  It made me wonder, what it is about Christmas that draws us home?

My architectural leaning is that there maybe comfort in knowing that our homes offer SHELTER from the storm.  As the darkness of winter looms, maybe we are naturally drawn to the warmth of the fire and protection from the elements.  The safety of being able to look out from your own space is very powerful, particularly at the moment.  Or maybe, as my heart suggests, perhaps it is more than that.  Maybe it is knowing that you have friends and family to share space with, to share your hopes and dreams.

Sharing Stories 

Our Scandinavian counterparts are keen on the concept of “Hygge” which embraces the thought of cosiness and contentment through simple things.  A philosophy that helps them through many a dark night and one we can all relate to. The dark nights give us the chance to harbour down with our families and reflect.  Reflect on a tough year and to share stories.  Sharing stories around a fire or a Christmas tree seems to give them new meaning, more power.  Maybe putting a physical marker on a moment creates memory, gives them resonance.

Ironically it is the temporary and impermanent nature of Christmas that I find the most frustrating.  The good old festive glow is sadly fleeting.  The Christmas tree, once so important, is cast asunder, the carefully wrapped presents lost in seconds.  Maybe we should be more precious about these things, about our time together. Maybe we should take time to understand why they matter so much and recognise the space Christmas creates for our souls.

Changing Spaces

What you will notice over the festive period is that your house is quickly turned upside down. The dining room becomes the playroom, the study someone’s bedrooms, whilst the garage plays host to a turkey. Spaces seem to be adapted to accommodate need. Space is made available to a Christmas Tree, a mother-in-law* and a whole menagerie of closely-related animals that have also decided to stay. Kids turn sofas into grottos whilst Mums and Dads find shelter in the rugby or “Back to the Future”.

Christmas gives us the chance to reflect, to see and shape space differently.  The question is, what space do you need? When you’ve got your feet up by the log fire, in the new space you have created, maybe there is something you like, that you might want to keep. Or maybe you notice there is another space that isn’t doing as much as for you as it might?

What matters most about the architecture of Christmas, is not the space you create, but the people you accommodate.  The more the merrier (covid restrictions pending).  If we can make time and space for people at Christmas perhaps there is hope for us and our houses when working from home or during the next lockdown.

Working from Home

Whatever your plans, make sure you make the most of your space this Christmas.  Put your feet up and think differently. Rather than letting lifestyle magazines dictate how you use a space why not take a moment to think about how your space can adapt to your lifestyle?  Now there is no turkey in the garage, what else could it be used for (the mother-in-law?).  Rather than take the decorations down, why not keep them up, keep your spirits up. Rather than say goodbye at the end of the season, why not give more time and space to each other throughout the year. One thing is for certain, it is important that we all make room for living in 2022!

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MERRY CHRISTMAS and HAPPY NEW YEAR

Whilst I’ll be home for Christmas, four walls and a roof may be out of reach for many. In the interest of goodwill and hygge and in the support of those that aren’t looking forward to Christmas you can DONATE to SHELTER by clicking on the link.

* My mother-in-law is really quite nice and I certainly wouldn’t think to put her in the garage.

 

Plunge Pool

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Scrace Architects have been working alongside our clients to develop designs for a  plunge pool.  The pool which is part of an extensive refurbishment of a large detached house incorporates the redesign of both kitchen and garden.  The pool makes the most of existing levels being set into the natural slope of the garden.  Connections with nature are provided by glass walls, reflections and rooflights.  

Imagine yourself enjoying a swim protected by the elements yet still connected to the beauty of the nature.

We always enjoy working on distinctive projects that offer a new route for the practice.  The use of sustainable technologies and materials are a key priority for our clients.  New treatments to the exterior of the house improve thermal efficiency and appearance, leaving the 1960’s bungalow behind to create a modern twist on art deco aesthetic.

The reordering of space within the existing footprint has enabled a large l-shaped kitchen / diner which brings a new heart to this family home.  Views to the garden are established through the integration of the landscape, levels and ribbon windows.

A reconfigured approach creates a new point of arrival to the property.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

THIS TOO WILL PASS

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Tim Scrace‘s sculpture, This Too Will Pass, #TTWP has been installed on the High Street in Salisbury and will remain in place throughout the summer 2021. The installation is part of Salisbury BID’s ongoing support for local businesses, particularly as they reopen after three months of lockdown, supporting a vibrant city centre that attracts both residents and visitors to Salisbury’s independent businesses and hospitality venues.

This video was prepared by Carlton Brunton of Brunton Media

People

The sculpture was created to mimic pilgrimage, the movement of people to and from the cathedral.  The passing of time and memory.  The process of reflection, mindfulness and vision represented in snapshots of the past, present and future.  Viewers pass along the same path as their ancestors and are encouraged to stop and recognise this.  The large monoliths created by recycled boards also hint to the neighbouring Stonehenge and other spiritual connections. Emphasising the link between the high street, st thomas’ and the cathedral they direct and articulate this force and movement.

Technology

The stones represent the process of constructing the cathedral, the crafting of a rock to a finished element, a finial.  Machine driven technology has enabled us to make products in a different way.  Where the materials of the past might be stone, those of the future are made of recycled plastic and recycled paper.

Vision

In allowing the community to mark the boards using chalk the aim of the sculpture is to help the city find its collective voice.  To reflect on the past and build on its future.  The world is changing and we all need to make changes.  “This Too Will Pass” provides a platform for this transition.  Please make a visit to Salisbury to share your thoughts and ideas.

WITH THANKS

The sculpture is funded by Arts Council England’s National Lottery Funding Grant.  The following people and organisations helped bring the sculpture to life. Thanks to: Salisbury Bid, Salisbury Cathedral Works Yard, Salisbury Joinery, Wiltshire Creative, Deborah Fox, James Gough, RDF Lighting, Richlite, Stormboard, RNC Fabrications, Wiltshire Council, Salisbury City Council, Design Pit, Signs Express.

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COMMENTS

Deborah Fox, owner of local gallery, café and gift shop Fisherton Mill, said: “It is so exciting to see our cityscape being enlivened by this locally designed, interactive artwork for the summer season. Visitors and locals alike are now so much more appreciative of the outdoors and Salisbury is very blessed with vibrant and historic streets and our High Street views will be further enhanced with this addition.”

Robert Titley, Chair of Salisbury Cathedral’s Arts Advisory Committee and Canon Treasurer of Salisbury Cathedral said: “It is wonderful to see Cathedral stone used in this new work. The builders of our Cathedral were driven by faith and hope, and they reached out for something beyond the everyday. We see that same spirit in this installation, and it’s a spirit we all need as we look forward from this hardest of years.”

Jess Gibbons, Wiltshire Council Director, Community and Neighbourhood services, said: “We are delighted to have been able to help facilitate the installation of this interactive sculpture in an area of Salisbury where it will be seen by a large number of people. Although this piece of art was initially developed as part of the 800th anniversary of the Cathedral commemoration, the theme of ‘This Too Will Pass’ is particularly relevant and poignant given the events of the last year or so. We hope that residents and visitors to the city take the opportunity to interact with the sculpture and it enables them to reflect on their own past, present and future.”

Salisbury Mayor Elect Councillor Caroline Corbin said: “Salisbury is excited about welcoming residents and visitors safely back into the city centre this summer as lockdown measures ease. This interactive sculpture will be an additional attraction, giving people a chance to reflect on the past but also to envisage a bright and optimistic future for us all.”