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Past Residencies

Plum Job was a year long residency aimed at 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 included SteepleArts, 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 was the inspired choice of Jeanette Sendler for this post, which was funded through the Scottish Arts Council Partners Scheme.

Having such a high quality resident artist has been of great benefit to Newburgh. There were 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 was recorded and documented, and Fife Contemporary Art and Craft helped us with the local presentation of work in showcases and exhibitions which 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. Jeanette's ability to improvise and her infectious enthusiasm fully vindicated that decision, and made the residency a joyous experience for everyone involved in the process. The three showcases of her work which took place over the course of the year were a great success, and Jeanette also led a number of open studio workshops. Not only that, she 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 also kept a diary of the residency there, which includes regular updates on events, showcases and workshops, and we hope to feature this material on the Steeple website in due course.