Provided in collaboration with Quay Arts, these are bi-monthly group Crit Sessions for creatives working in disciplines such as visual & performance arts, animation, moving image, photography, craft.
Crit session coming up: Mon 18th Nov 2024, 6-8 pmQuay Arts Seminar Room, Newport, FREE
A crit is a critique where one creative will be invited at each session to share their work with a group and speak about their work, idea or a project they are pursuing, looking for honest, constructive feedback from other artists. These sessions will be limited to max 20 places within each group.
Chaired by Alys Scott Hawkins:The group Crit Sessions will be chaired by Alys Scott Hawkins. Alys is a specialist in Artist Support, providing guidance and advice to overcome barriers, plan projects and make funding applications. She is a member of the Artist Council: the advisory panel for a-n: the UK’s largest membership organisation for visual artists. Previously she led the Artist Development programme at 'a space' arts, Southampton, drawing on her long-standing networks within the arts sector across the region.
To find out more about Alys and her work, please click here.

Alys Scott Hawkins, photo by Maria Bell
Presenting on Mon 18 Nov 2024: Vicky Wilson:Artist Vicky Wilson, will present her project 'Below the Surface'. This captivating series of experimental short films uses paint, light, projection, and sound to explore the complexity of hidden emotions, creating a unique and immersive experience.
Vicky Wilson is an artist and designer, whose work spans digital, physical, and multi-disciplinary formats. Her past projects include an award-winning advertising campaign for The National Army Museum and exhibitions at Quay Arts and Monkton Arts. In 'Below the Surface', she continues her exploration of minimal lines, bold contrasts, and fluid forms, encouraging viewers to connect with their own emotions through her work.
To learn more about Vicky’s work:Website: vickywilsonart.comInstagram: @vickywilsonart


This is a unique opportunity for Isle of Wight creatives to gain valuable feedback, share insights, and develop their practice in a supportive group setting. All creatives are welcome!
What others have said:
"Presenting my work at the crit session and discussing my practice with other creatives was incredibly valuable. Having just completed my DYCP and having lots of ideas about what I could do next, it was really helpful to hear from others about what they found most interesting in my work. Alys’s guidance and the structure of the session meant that I was able to get feedback on the questions that really mattered to me. I would highly recommend the experience to anyone!" - Gemma Mallinson, artist.
"When I received the opportunity to participate in the group Crit Sessions, I found it incredibly valuable for the development of my 'Drip Splatter Smear' project. These sessions provided a unique space where I could openly share my work with a diverse group of creatives, gaining feedback that was both insightful and constructive. This supportive environment encouraged me to explore new perspectives and approaches I hadn't considered. The chance to discuss my ideas was instrumental in shaping the direction of my project, offering guidance that continues to influence my work as I push 'Drip Splatter Smear' into new phases. This experience not only strengthened my current practice but also provided me with tools and insights that I’ll carry into future projects." - Laura Hathaway, artist.
The event will take place in the Seminar Room next to the Cafe at Quay Arts.
MON 18 NOV SESSION - BOOK HERE!
If you would like to be considered for future group Crit Sessions, please email georgia@creativeisland.org a brief outline of what you’d like to present, along with any links to your work and technical requirements to show your work.
Light refreshments will be available at these sessions and there will be a chance to network with other creatives after the discussions. We’ll also hear from the Quay Arts team about opportunities coming up at the Centre.

Venue address: Quay Arts, Sea Street, Newport Harbour, IW PO30 5BD(access via side terrace entrance door).
Parking available via two car parks on Little London Rd and Sea Street. Buses also regularly come into Newport from all areas of the Island and is a 5 min walk from the bus station.





