Artist Profile: Beth Serjeant

HOW DID YOU FIRST CONNECT WITH OUTREACH, NOW STUDIO ONE TOI TŪ?

—
As an artist working in a graphic design studio bordering Western Park, I passed Newton Police Barracks many times each week. My husband’s brother slept there as a police officer cadet. My cousin’s daughter rode a horse through the carriage way (where Sidewalk Gallery is located) as a policewoman, and I with my Baby Louis heels and ponytail became accustomed to various activities observed from the footpath.

On my return to Auckland, I attended the odd workshop at Outreach (now Studio One Toi Tū) by Lois McIvor which became the regular meeting place of The Association of Woman Artists. The final activity of that group was The International Postcard Exchange to celebrate 100 years Woman’s Suffrage Anniversary, plus New Zealand workshops. After that I have taught print making and book structures for decades both at Studio One Toi Tū and various Polytechnics.

WHAT ROLE DO YOU THINK PLACES LIKE STUDIO ONE TOI TŪ PLAY IN SUPPORTING ARTISTS AND CREATIVITY?

— 
Studio One Toi Tū serves as a central hub for creatives. The Cell Block has been repurposed to provide space where emerging artists could settle and produce their work.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE ARTIST OR ARTWORK THAT YOU OFTEN RETURN TO??

—
A favourite artist – well firstly you must relate to what you do yourself – the hands-on physical nature of print making brings to mind printers who have worked with text, image, and structure, including Rodney Fumpston at The Society of Arts, and Claire Van Vliet of Janus Press in Vermont.

WHAT IS IT ABOUT THE PRINTMAKING PROCESS THAT CONTINUES TO INSPIRE YOU?

— 
I am fascinated by the processes of print making through editions, and the fact that ideas can be shared and reach more people. Leaving behind lasting images and messages.

IF YOU COULD SHARE ONE THOUGHT OR PIECE OF ADVICE WITH YOUNGER ARTISTS, WHAT WOULD IT BE?

— 
Discover, experiment, learn, enjoy and communicate. Because that is what keeps us going.