KATY McGAHAN
Artist - filmmaker
film, sound, photographer, writer, researcher, activist
My practice spans filmmaking, sound art, poetry, photography, printmaking, participatory art and activism. In 2022 I completed the two-year MFA
in Creative Documentary Practice at University College London (UCL) which gave me the opportunity to explore my film and audio practice.
I am drawn to making works that explore the tension between our
deep connection with the rest of the living world and our simultaneous involvement in the destruction of it - in this time of climate flux.
I am interested in exploring the interplay between the fragility and the resilience of nature and re-evaluating our place within it. For me the
actual making of a work is as important as the finished result. To this end
I often incorporate intentional rituals that help create space around
the art making - as opposed to being overly focussed on the final work or 'product' - and try to tap into a wider spectrum of senses and meanings across memory, folklore and the circularity of time.
I recently completed a year-long Permaculture Design Course (PDC)
which has given me new and exciting frameworks and tools by which to approach my work and live in a more sustainable and resilient way.
For me an idea usually starts with a walk - in an urban or remote area.
Along the way encounters with natural landmarks, people, flora, fauna, weather patterns and local folklore helps me formulate and
shape ideas in a dynamic ever-changing environment. Back in the studio,
mapping connections is a continuation of the walk. I adhere to the idea
that the soul moves at 3mph...
I also experiment with the documentary form. My UCL graduation feature film, The Happy Man Tree (2022), has been shown in festivals in the UK and internationally. It was selected to screen as part of the UK-wide Green Screen Network, an initiative on the part of Picturehouse cinemas designed to encourage cinemas across the UK to screen more environmental films.
I am a founding member of the NoticeThisTree art-for-action group who have been organising participatory art/activist/performance interventions in towns and cities across the UK since 2023.
I run short courses in radical filmmaking and experimental audio under
the banner of Hyenas in Petticoats.
I help to organise the annual 1932 Hayfield Trespass anniversary event and campaign for greater access to land in the UK.
I have dual British/Irish citizenship
I live in the High Peak, Derbyshire
