Offsite9: Daniella Turbin - SO9198
Daniella Turbin is working with The Asylum Art Gallery to lead a series of public walks around Wolverhampton. Through drawing and walking she explores different communities of the city’s past, present and future, particularly empty and near-lost spaces which have been used for gathering or meeting. Turbin’s work SO9198 attempts to recall the memory of these spaces while considering their future.
What drew you to this commission?
The commission is an opportunity to branch out and share my practice with audiences. Last year I went on a 436-mile walk from Wolverhampton Art Gallery, and walked the entire Ordnance Survey map for the city. While I know a lot of people probably don't fancy going for such a long walk, this was a chance to bring the experience back in the city and work on a hyper-local level.
How do you begin your research process?
My practice usually begins by looking at a map, reading and taking a walk (not always in that order). This is the same for Offsite9. While I have a planned structure, I try to allow it to create its own rhythm. I will be inviting the public to be part of the research and creation of the map as well as participants in the event.
What does the city mean to you?
Wolverhampton is my home city and I live and work here. There is something quite comforting and friendly about the distinctive accent, and Wolverhampton feels like one of the friendliest cities. It often gets a bad rep. but it has a rich history and character worth celebrating.
How does SO9198 fit within your wider practice and interests?
This commission has given me the opportunity to explore Wolverhampton intimately as it takes place in an area of 1km2. SO9198 is the grid reference for Wolverhampton city centre and it includes Asylum, Wolverhampton Art Gallery and the main high street to name a few. I used the same titling system in a residency I recently did at The New Art Gallery Walsall – I have a feeling it is something that I'll be continuing to use. I'm interested in exploring how the hyper-local relates to the local, regional and national through walking, drawing and photography. Alongside the commission for Offsite9 I have been going for walks elsewhere in the West Midlands and out to London and Glasgow.
Is the act of walking or the recording of the walk that you view as your practice?
That's an interesting question. I think it's both; I'm not sure that one presides over the other. The act of being out engaging with the landscape feels as important to my work as the documentation of the walk.
What do you hope audiences will gain from the walks?
I hope audiences feel encouraged to look at the city with a curious eye, and to take the time to slowly consider the multi-layered narratives that unfold as we walk around and record the city. Coming from an art background, rather than a historical or geographical one, I often feel like an explorer when I'm out walking, collecting fragments which can be examined back in the studio. It will be great for audiences to have an active part in the development of the three-month project.