The future
Our aim for Genius Loci is that it forms an integral part of our overall public art strategy to enhance and improve the image of the County of Essex nationally and internationally, as an exciting, forward looking and inspiring location. To achieve this we must continue to install a working practice of commissioning artists as early as possible as a valued member of the design team, produce high quality artwork, build upon the foundations we are currently creating, develop strong partnerships and have a coherent vision of public art within Essex, and how it can compliment or inform other art processes.
Our journey so far couldn't have been achieved without the delivery skills of Commissions East in a number of our projects. From a personal perspective, having the opportunity to work closely with such an exciting and forward looking group of artists and professionals over a sustained period of time delivering Genius Loci has been an exciting addition to the programme allowing a studio feel to develop through good conversation, honesty, communication, group meetings, peer reviews and the exchange of skills and understanding through different disciplines. A factor in this has been the introduction of the artist electronic sketchbook, which has allowed the artists to communicate informally online, create a gallery of their images and share ideas between themselves.
I find that the role I have in commissioning artists in areas where traditionally it's not been an accepted policy is fantastic. We need to show not only what tremendous skills artists can offer to the public realm but to do this we have to deliver quality, provide a legacy of skills, inspire and continue to prove our worth and value to the public and the decision makers. We are all working together to enhance Essex arts culture and understanding and if we continue to build on these foundations, deliver successful projects and offer the quality skills from artists which are available, perhaps one day this process will be an accepted norm.
