Chapter 4 of the Unplugged Residency welcomes Frankie Penwill; a print designer and artist living in east London. Originating from a small town in the county of Devon, she grew up surrounded by nature and being outdoors. We spoke to Frankie to see how 72 hours at Monty gave her creative inspiration.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and your work?
I grew up in a small town right by the beach in Devon so naturally I absolutely love being outside. If I could describe my work in 3 words I’d say colourful, calming and comforting. My work is inspired a lot by my surroundings and little everyday objects that bring me joy. I’m obsessed with anything botanical and floral from interiors to ceramics.
How were you feeling before you headed our to nature?
I really needed this break. I was craving time to reflect. Being in the city, you start to lack mental clarity so escape to a remote cabin and going back to basics for 72 hours was perfectly timed. There was nobody around. No internet. No screens. I was forced to experience true escapism and peace; something we absolutely all need whether you are going through a different life moment, or not.
Being in the countryside, breathing in the fresh sea air and enjoying long walks just hits different to city life
How does nature inspire your work?
Being from Devon, I have gone out and worked in nature numerous times but this this was a total new experience for me. Going offline added a new creative element and angle, one I will definitely return to.
Everyone has a highlight from their escape. What was yours?
Waking up in what felt like the middle of nowhere and enjoying the slower pace of life. That dreaded, lingering and constant feeling of “oh, I should be doing this or that” seemed to drift away quite quickly. Once I let that go, I felt so relaxed and calm.
I was finally experiencing the present moment rather than pausing to see what everyone else is up to or replying to emails or doing 5 different things at once!
Now that you’ve experienced a digital detox, will you take any small habits away with you?
I am trying to put my phone in the other room in the evening, even if it’s for 2 to 3 hours at a time. It really makes such a difference. ’m making a more conscious effort to do this and so far I’m finding it much easier to wind down and really switch off from the world. Before, when I went to a gym class was the only time I wasn’t with my phone.
You can check out Frankie’s beautiful work via her website or via Instagram @frankiepenwill.
