Seed to Sky connects artists with Country
MORE = https://firstnationsnews.com.au/seed-to-sky-connects-artists-with-country/
The Arts & Cultural Exchange has unveiled Seed to Sky, the first on-Country artist residency launched from Still Growing, ACE’s youth collective supporting the next generation of artists and creative communities.
Delivered in partnership with BigCi, on the edge of Wollemi National Park on Dharug Country, the inaugural residency takes place from September 2-12.
Seed to Sky has brought together Dharug artists Billy Bain, Jess Tobin, Mason Browne and Chloe Webb for ten days of creative development, cultural exchange, reflection and connection to Country. Supported by Dharug Knowledge Holders and mentors Aunty Julie Jones Webb, Aunty Leanne Tobin, Peta Strachan and Uncle Chris Tobin, the artists will to spend time developing their practice.
“Still Growing began with young people and a belief that when you create the right conditions, give people space and surround them with community, incredible things can grow,” ACE First Nations Advisor, Akala Newman said.
“Seed to Sky is the next chapter of that journey, a platform for everyone at every stage and residency that creates the conditions for genuine growth.”
Creating opportunities for artists
Co-curated by ACE’s First Nations team. Advisor Akala Newman and Producer Tannika Keaton, the residency is made possible through the Create NSW Western Sydney Strategic Partnership Program and marks the beginning of a longer-term vision for Still Growing—creating opportunities for artists and communities to come together, connect with Country and grow through ongoing relationships rather than one-off encounters.
At the heart of Seed to Sky is a partnership between communities. BigCi, established and run by Rae and Yuri Bolotin alongside their son Daniel, as an independent, artist-run, not-for-profit residency program supporting artists’ professional development and creative projects whilst ensuring and honouring Dharug custodianship.
Rather than treating Country as simply the backdrop to an artist residency, Seed to Sky places connection, care and custodianship at the centre of the experience.
“BigCi is a place for artists to slow down, listen and connect deeply with Country,” BigCi Artistic Director, Rae Bolotin said.
“We’re delighted to see Seed to Sky bring artists, Elders and community together in this way. For us, being on Dharug Country comes with a responsibility to listen, learn and build relationships with its custodians. Seed to Sky is a beautiful opportunity for those relationships to deepen through art, culture and time together.”
The inaugural residency will culminate in Seed to Sky: A Gathering — Open Studio & Community Yarn on September 12.
Seed to Sky is the first of a series of future Still Growing residencies on Country, continuing to build opportunities for artists, cultural leadership and communities to connect, create and grow together.
For more information, visit: https://aceinc.org.au/where-creativity-meets-country-the-seed-to-sky-residency/
