artists - studios - events - the steeple arts

Current Residency

Plum Job is a year long residency giving an artist working with textiles/fibre an opportunity to explore the past and present relationship of the community to the land in Newburgh.  Community partners include Fife Arts Co-operative, Newburgh Orchard Group, Newburgh Garden Orchard Group, Parkhill Farm, Twist Fibre Craft Studio and Newburgh Primary School.

One of the bright spots of a difficult year for the FAC has been the inspired choice of Jeanette Sendler for this post, which is funded through the Scottish Arts Council Partners Scheme.

Having such a high quality resident artist has already been of great benefit to Newburgh. There have been numerous workshops, showcases and classes, some with particular groups and some designed to complement existing traditional Newburgh activities, such as the Plum Fayre in September. The project is being recorded and documented, and Fife Contemporary Art and Craft is helping us with the local presentation of work in showcases and exhibitions which, depending on outcomes, may later be taken further afield.

Problems with the build at the Steeple meant a change to Jeanette’s plans to move into the residency flat in March 2007. The option of postponing the residency was discussed, but it was decided that this would have an adverse effect on the momentum of the project. Steps were taken to organise temporary accommodation in the Town, allowing the residency to begin on schedule. Since then, Jeanette's ability to improvise and her infectious enthusiasm have fully vindicated that decision, and made the residency a joyous experience for everyone involved in the process. The first two showcases of her work, at the beginning of July and the end of September, have been a great success, and Jeanette has also led a number of open studio workshops. Meanwhile she has decided she likes Newburgh so much that she, her partner Dave and dog Zero have bought a property in the town and will be making their permanent home here.

Examples of Jeanette’s work and past residencies can be seen on her website www.sendler.co.uk. Jeanette is also keeping a diary of the residency there, which includes regular updates on events, showcases and workshops.

For announcements about forthcoming events relating to the residency please check out our Stop Press page.