Artists Statement

Apollinariia Illina

Scholarship visual arts 1.10. – 31.12.2023

What made you apply for the otte1 scholarship?
The aspiration to expand the scope of one’s own perception in one’s research and life in general. Otte 1 scholarship is a great opportunity to work on a project in a stunning city by the sea. An important moment for me was the opportunity to immerse myself in a new cultural environment and meet new people.

What did you work on during your stay?
During the residency, curator scholar Nicholé Velásquez and I worked on two events. Firstly, it is the Long Night of Art at the Kunstlerhaus, where I was able to show two of my old projects and created a small installation. Secondly, the creation of the personal exhibition where I was able to present my significant project “Break”. Honestly, the most important part of my stay there was observing people and communicating with them. It gave me inspiration and now I’m working on a new project.

What inspired you at the Künstlerhaus in Eckernförde?
Absolutely everything! First of all, I am always inspired by the people around me and the period of staying in Otte 1 was no exception. I am very grateful to the people around me in Eckernförde. Also, living near Sea encouraged me for new ideas and rethinking my work and my life. It was a great experience which inspired me to work on two of my new projects.

What do you take away from Eckernförde for your further artistic development?
It is impossible to single out one thing. The months spent at the residence have greatly changed both my mind and my attitude towards many professional issues. I appreciate this experience, which opened up new research questions for me and made me look at many things in a new way.

What would you like to add?
It was an absolutely perfect experience! I am thankful to all people around me in Otte1 Künstlerhaus.