Millie
Podmore
31.03. - 05.05.2026
Artist Statement
I work across illustration and stippled pen drawings. My drawings are grounded in close observation of the natural world, wildlife and a desire for presence, while my illustration practice offers a more playful and imaginative space for storytelling and visual communication. Both practices offer different forms of relief.
Working with dots is a deliberate choice to slow down and value patience. I enjoy the grainy texture and watching the drawing slowly emerge with every mark. The steady rhythm of stippling settles me into a deeply focused state, where my mind drifts and time seems to dissolve, much like being in nature.
The gradual accumulation of dots mirrors the intricacy and long development of natural forms. The high level of detail encourages close study, fostering curiosity and familiarity with the subject. Although the process can be intense and occasionally frustrating, due to the slow progression, this tension sustains my engagement and care for the work.
Illustration functions as a more intuitive, narrative-driven counterpart to my stippling practice. Through whimsical characters and imagined worlds, I use humour and simple imagery to explore thoughts and emotions that feel overwhelming. By translating these feelings into gently absurd visual narratives, the work aims to create a quiet sense of recognition and comfort through shared experience.
Together, these two ways of working provide an essential balance. Stippling requires care, control, and solitude, while illustration invites freedom, play, and connection. Curiosity underpins both practices, shaping what is observed closely and what is allowed to remain open and imagined.
About the Project
During the residency, I created a new series of stippled pen drawings based on close observation of Koroni’s natural surroundings, exploring whatever captured my attention. I spent time walking and photographing wildlife, natural forms, and coastal and marine environments as reference material. I was interested in discovering which subjects I was drawn to—whether expected or unexpected - and how a different environment and pace might influence my visual language and relationship to the stippling process.
Alongside this, I kept a sketchbook to document everyday life. I wanted to create a relaxed space to draw freely, without a specific outcome or audience in mind, embracing imperfections and their uniqueness. By sketching what was in front of me each day, I hoped to loosen my approach and make quicker, more responsive drawings rooted in the moment. Working in a new environment and breaking from familiar routines often nurtured this, allowing for greater freedom and spontaneity.
After two years surrounded by London’s wildlife and parks, I was excited by the change in scenery, community, and culture. I was curious about how a less urban environment might shape the way I observed and engaged with nature. New settings and encounters often opened up fresh ways of seeing and thinking, sparking creativity and reflection. Alongside my plans for the residency, I left room for experimentation with other mediums and ideas that emerged naturally during my stay, supporting both focused making and longer-term development.
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Interview
Why did you choose to stay at Agora Art Space?
One of the main reasons I chose to stay at Agora Art Space was the opportunity to dedicate uninterrupted time to my drawing practice. In London, my life is very busy, and even when I have a free day, I often feel pressure to make it productive. Here, having five weeks gave me the freedom to focus on my work without deadlines or expectations, while also allowing me to experiment with new ideas and techniques.
Another reason was the location itself. I love Greece. The slower pace of life, the landscape, the sea, and the friendliness of the people. During my stay, I felt very welcomed, and the place quickly became familiar and comfortable.
What made this experience especially valuable was the sense of complete freedom. Unlike during my fine art degree, where there were still requirements and deadlines, this was the first time I had both the time and studio space to work entirely on my own terms. That made the residency feel very special.
How did your time at Agora Art Space influence your creativity?
My time at Agora Art Space had a strong influence on my creativity. The combination of time, space, and a slower pace of life allowed me to be more present and observant. Without the constant demands and distractions of daily life, I found myself wandering, paying attention to small details, and noticing things I would normally overlook.This led me to develop a daily sketchbook practice, treating it as a visual diary rather than focusing on creating perfect drawings. That process helped me become more aware of my surroundings and more open to experimentation.
The residency also encouraged me to disconnect from my phone and spend more time engaging directly with what was around me. Interestingly, although I initially planned to focus on wildlife and nature, I became increasingly interested in everyday objects and materials. This shift in attention revealed new sources of inspiration and influenced the direction of my work during the residency.
Based on which criteria do you choose the artwork you leave to Agora Art Space?
When choosing the artwork to leave at Agora Art Space, I wanted it to reflect my experience during the residency. At first, I wasn't sure what the piece should be, but I realized it should represent something that became important to me during my time here.
One of the strongest themes that emerged was my fascination with the chairs and everyday objects I encountered, which unexpectedly became a major focus of my drawings. Because of that, I am considering leaving a drawing inspired by those observations.
I also want the work to feel authentic to my artistic practice. While I have been experimenting with new techniques during the residency, I would prefer to leave a piece that reflects the medium and style I feel most confident in and that best represents me as an artist. Ultimately, I want the artwork to capture both my personal experience here and the creative direction that developed during my stay.
Who would you recommend Agora Art Space to?
I would recommend Agora Art Space to people who are looking for a slower pace of life and are willing to embrace quietness and solitude. The experience encourages reflection, independence, and being comfortable in your own company. For artists who want to slow down, focus deeply on their work, and reconnect with their creativity, it can be incredibly valuable.