Professional Practice - Mik Godley

During Mik Godley's talk we were introduced to his ongoing 'Considering Silesia' art journey and the various ways he works. His drawings and paintings look quite traditional and authentic, yet are made digitally using iPad apps such as 'Sketchbook' and then printed large scale. He takes the idea of digital art even further by doing research into different places using sites like Google Earth where he can explore and become immersed in the landscape freely, in areas that may otherwise be inaccessible. I think this is a really good idea because travel can be difficult and expensive, but Google Earth and streetview allow you to explore the world and discover some of the most remote locations. Godley's talk was therefore a good lesson in how to use the internet as a limitless tool for research. His experience of the online world through the years has influenced some his work in a very visible way, as some of his paintings feature squarish blocky marks that recall the pixelated low resolution images of the early days of the internet and the first mobile phones to have cameras. 


Considering Silesia seems to be a very personal project that accompanies Godley in life like a quest for answers. I like the idea of having an ongoing project that I can develop at my own pace through a creative journey, and the idea that there is no real end point provides a sense of comfort. His approach is sensitive to the state of the world around him and its likenesses to moments from the past. I think this is quite different to the way I work because I become quite absorbed in my own little world rather than the bigger picture.

Godley spent time abroad where he created largescale wall and ceiling paintings at Chateau de Coat an Noz in France. I think it's important to get experience of different cultures when your work involves geographical and political themes or an exploration of place, so I think Mik Godley is a good example of an artist who is dedicated to their cause. 

 



Lecture Notes:

 

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