TAK Erzinger, 14 – 21 September, 2024

The residency provided a critical and necessary space, clear of responsibilities enabling me to develop my artistic practice. More specifically time to work on a new body of nature poems inspired by the sea which are going to be part of my next poetry collection.  It provided inspiration in safe setting for me to develop a new approach to my work: writing and painting.  It also set me in a different direction with my art: landscapes. 

Furthermore, sharing the space with my husband outside of our home, showed me that it is possible for me to continue working on my practice when he is “at home” with me without it being a distraction.

For both of us it provided a tremendous sense of well-being: a relief from his constant tinnitus by being next to the roaring sea and me witnessing his sense of calm.  Which fostered a freedom and peace none of us had felt in a long time.

Lastly, St Just’s community was very welcoming, and this gave us albeit brief a sense of belonging.

I wrote this poem that was inspired by Priest Cove.
It would be lovely if you could share it on the BV website with my comment.
Only if reasonable.
 
Message at the Cove 
 
Like ritual waves arrive from distant shores
and when tides recede reassurance is given
of its return:
creatures when you are exposed, I will protect you
whether or not you believe it
between the rocks and little ones within the estuaries
all this land is shaped by me, the sea.
Mist mutes the sun, it bleeds across the horizon
awash in the colour, this place that existed
long before a human stood here
carrying on without hesitation 
even now, as the world is hurting
the sea will continue working to keep its promise
even when everything has grown beyond
its control.
 
©2024 TAK Erzinger, written on the rocks at Priest Cove