AVA a-i-r
Jenny Rideout
In Residence July 1 - December 31, 2024
Congratulations to Jenny Rideout, AVA's newest artist-in-residence! Jenny will receive a free studio space located in the Astoria Studio Collective from July 1 - December 31 where she will continue her latest bodies of work, "Sails", "Freq Flags," and "Bonnets for Space Exploration."
Jenny writes:
This body of work evolved out of an imagining I had of a majestic old tall ship. I saw intricate patchwork sails, maneuvering the ship elegantly and powerfully along the constantly shifting surface of the ocean. In my vision the sails were covered in colorful mends, mysterious symbols, sigils, and patterns. The resulting sails are meditations on power, creativity, and the culmination of experiences alchemized for maximum propulsion.
As I continued to play with this idea, I realized I needed bonnets for my crew. Utilizing more found materials from various time streams, I created headwear. "Bonnets for Space Exploration" point to inner archetypes that are at once ancient and futuristic.
Finally, I want to ground the explorations of my ship with “Freq Flags”. "Freq Flags", (or frequency flags) are inspired by burgees, small flags flown on sea faring vessels to indicate home port. Also inspired by ancient abstract tantric art, they are meant to be deeply grounding yet brightly expansive at the same time. They are about holding one’s home frequency even while in the midst of wild exploration.
Meet Jenny in her studio during Second Saturday Art Walk and look for her exhibit with fellow a-i-r recipient Jeremy Furnish in January 2025.
The AVA a-i-r program is supported by the members of Astoria Visual Arts and the generosity of community businesses Astoria Coffeehouse & Bistro and Fine Art Supply.
About AVA a-i-r / Call for Artists
The AVA a-i-r is designed to encourage the creative, intellectual, and professional growth of local artists. One residency finalist will be chosen on the basis of merit by an independent selection panel of professionals in the arts and arts patrons. The selected artist will be provided with a studio in the Astoria Studio Collective building, located at 372 10th Street, free of charge for the six-month residency period. Artists who have applied in the past are welcome to reapply with an updated portfolio and statement reflecting updates and changes. Application details are below. The AVA a-i-r program was established in 2015 and has supported 34 artists over the years.
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General Information/How to Apply
Submit an application that includes:
(1) A short essay that answers the following questions:
What project will you be working on during the residency period
How will the project benefit your professional development as an artist
(2) A short bio and resume, if available
(3) 3 - 5 high-resolution jpg images, including the title, size, medium and date completed for each artwork; for film/video submissions, include samples of work no longer than 20 minutes in length
Eligibility: Local artists at least 18 years of age, living within Clatsop and Pacific counties.
Requirements: Artists are requested (not required) to show their completed work in a joint show at the AVA Gallery at a time to be determined by AVA and the a-i-r. The selected a-i-r is required to open their studio to the public at least 3 of the 6 second Saturday Artwalks to assist with professional development of the artist.
Length of stay: Six months
Aid: Selected artists will be provided with a small studio in the Astoria Studio Collective building free of charge. Some additional financial help with art supplies and drink/food vouchers may be provided.
Selection committee: An independent panel of working artists and supporters will serve as the selection committee.
For questions: please email astoriavisualarts@gmail.com.