Charlie Hill is currently in her second and final year on the Engaged Practice Starter Studio Programme. She is a mixed media artist with a keen interest in the relationship between art and nature. During her time on the programme Charlie has been exploring different ways of enaging people with nature, their envrionment and local green spaces in Parson Cross. She has developed the Trailing Project which amongst other things has seen her making links with local gardeners and allotments, handing out free seeds and generally being out and about in the area with her trolly. Charlie also works part time at Whirlow Hall Farm as Education Officer.  In her second year she wants to work towards a more sustainable holistic future as an artist encompassing life/art/farm.

What have your experiences been on the Starter Studio Programme to date? Interesting, informative, questioning, experimental , exciting, varied ,friendly, scary, challenging, eye opening.

What has been difficult? Finding a starting point for work and continuing to explore it and go through the peaks and troughs of developing my art practice. Finding a place in Parson Cross.

What has been fantastic? The people you meet along the way; the residents that engage - who are genuine and curious, their experiences, working with other artists and learning new practices.

What have you been able to achieve whilst being part of the programme which you may otherwise have not? Techniques for engaging with people, skills in writing proposals, a funded project , a good relationship with my mentor, expanding making skills.

What do you hope to do after completing the programme in October this year? Work with communities, continuing my exploration of working with people and nature. Secure funding for further projects.

What do you think is the best thing about Parson Cross? The freedom to explore and experiment!