It was fantastic to welcome artists Alaya Ang (Scotland), Holly Bobisuthi (USA), Jonny Walker (Scotland) and Kishita Nayyar (England) to SSW in May, to take part in the first Group Residency of 2025.
The Group Residency artists were also joined by RSA Residencies for Scotland artist Jodi de Bigre and Open Access Residency artists Marianne Mulvey and Dinda Fass.
Over the course of their month-long residency, the group had inductions and support in ceramics, metalwork, blacksmithing and stonework. Alongside developing their practices in the workshops & studio, and joining our Community Making Space programme, the group took part in a collective programme of walks, saunas, potluck meals, film nights, artist sharings and peer learning. Some of the group even found time for a dip in the River Don during our lovely Scottish summer!
The group enjoyed trips to Huntly – the Swift Walk led by Huntly Swift Group came very highly recommended! As did visits to our friends Deveron Projects for Alternative Film Club, it was great to have SSW Open Access Residency artist Marianne Mulvey select and introduce two films as part of the programme.
It has been a pleasure to work with the Group Residency artists and see the fantastic work they developed onsite, along with the energy and fun they brought to SSW!
Below are reflections from the artists and images taken during the first Group Residency of the year, which took place 26 May – 20 June 2025.
Words from the artists, images by SSW.
—
My residency at SSW was a deeply enriching experience that allowed me to slow down, experiment, and reconnect with my practice in new ways.
I had the chance to learn metal working techniques—something completely new to my practice alongside also given space and freedom to experiment within my current ceramic practice.
Technically I picked up many skills, felt like a self-directed crash course in ceramics and mixing glazes(!!) and enjoyed how there were also moments for learning
Unexpected and fun social activities too
The supportive environment, great facilities, skilled technicians and incredible fellow residents made space for genuine exploration.
