Pedro Vaz
Lisbon, Portugal
Phoenix Residency February 20-March 19, 2017
“
Phoenix Institute of Contemporary art (phICA) Immersive Artist Residency was a very interesting experience, that totally matched the needs of my artistic inquiry, amongst other reasons, due to the intriguing landscape surrounding the city.
I could fully take advantage of everything thanks to the team’s tireless effort to meet my needs. Ted Decker, Cindy Dach and Greg Esser were amazing welcoming me, added by the attentive assistance of Cory Slawson, Jesse Doris and Elijah Bourque.
Phoenix Institute of Contemporary Art (phICA) and Ted Decker Catalyst Fund covered nearly all expenses and I received the production support needed for staging Peralta to Boulder Canyon installation at phICA, which opened March, the 17th, after having taken an expedition at the Superstition Mountains, Tonto National Forest, as part of the research project. Also I was comfortable and kindly hosted by Cindy Dach and Greg Esser at their guest home.
Furthermore, I was lucky enough to have friends Ramon Aguirre and Rigo Flores around, always available to help.
The most remarking aspects concerning my stay were indeed the particularity of the landscape added by the atmospheric characteristics, the unique colours of the light and sky and the extreme dryness, which took over the work I have done.
Also I would like to remark the First Friday Art Walk in Phoenix, when citizens go out to visit art exhibitions and get to know whats up at the art scene! The event makes the connection between public and art very lively, which adds to the general good mood around!”