BEA MARIA

What has your art practice meant to you over the last year?

Over the past year, my practice has given me an outlet for all the energy I have that I can’t put into much else that is physical; throughout all the lockdowns, it has been my therapy whilst also providing my routine to stay motivated. This past year in particular, my practice has meant going back to the basics and having time to dedicate to improving and refining skills involved with creating.

What do you feel has been missing from recent virtual exhibitions?

The biggest thing missing from virtual exhibitions is being around people, and the conversations that surround the work, socialising, networking… However, I think exhibitions have also massively adapted over the past year to be able to be hosted in an online environment, and have provided a way for people to exhibit their work and be seen. Virtual exhibitions have given artists a new platform.

Do you know of, or are you involved in any artist networks/ community art collectives that you would like to recommend?

The community of artists at the Peoples Republic of Stokes Croft are great. Many artists work or volunteer there, and they work with lots of different communities. It’s a really inclusive environment and they’re always hosting workshops and events. I’ve loved volunteering with them in the past.