During my time at Civitella, I was keen to explore a new way of working, to experiment in a medium that I don’t normally spend extensive time in during my usual studio life. I worked on a body of drawings on paper; working in pastels, oil sticks, ink and graphite. Later, it was a unique experience to show these works at the castle’s 15th century chapel. The fortifying castle structure became important to the content of my work.

I found myself deeply moved by the paintings of the region, especially the work of Piero della Francesca and the frescoes at the Oratorio di San Giovanni Battista in Urbino; the fragments of the frescoes seeping into my own images.

One of the great gifts of the residency was the quiet time spent reading, writing, and in conversation with the other fellows. The dinner conversations felt crucial and energizing to my creativity, as did the fellows’ readings and our evening film screenings.
I will always remember the beautiful Umbrian light, the endless trees surrounding the castle and the delicious meals we ate everyday. Thank you Civitella, for the joyous, nourishing six weeks; that will stay with me forever.