Pavani Konda reflects on her Nest Residency

It’s been a little while since I completed my two week Nest Residency at Talking Birds. Two weeks of support and freedom, where I got to switch off from the world and focus solely on the things I wanted to create. 

As I was in a Nestival Residency, I already had a slightly fleshed out idea of what I wanted to do during these two weeks. I had a novel I’ve been wanting to write/and had been writing but wanted to really give structure and shape to. I always thought I could create wherever, whenever, that when it comes to writing all I need is something to write with and a head full of ideas but these two weeks slightly shifted my perspective.

I learned the importance of space. A space to create in. A space to get away from the world from. A space to be myself, without restrictions, with trust and a space where I could pop downstairs and talk to a supportive community. A group of fellow residents and the wonderful people at Talking Birds. We discussed ideas, why we were there, where we were on our journeys as artists and figuring it all out. It was so precious to me, especially as a recent graduate to have that community to bounce ideas off and be inspired by. In a way that was another type of space that I realised was important to me. 

As for what I actually got done during those weeks, although I put pressure on myself to create something to make the most of the time I had there, everyone around me told me to just relax and take it at my own pace. I think I did this, recognising that letting go might actually be better for me and my art.

I wrote/rewrote the first chapter of the novel I was finally content with, although I’m still working up the nerve to share it to get feedback. I have a more carved out timeline for the events of the story to take place and a folder full of different plot points and their resolutions, as well as research that I need for background information. 

I definitely made progress, and I got very comfortable in my little Space Odyssey office. So much so, I still miss it. I think it’s rare to get an incredible opportunity like this and I’m so grateful for everyone at Talking Birds, for supporting me and for my nestival residency that has taught me the importance of space, as I set off on my writing journey.