30 September 1999

Hello, (hey,hey) My Finnish visitor, l didn't realise that l would be working with such a world-hopping celeb. What's it like being famous? (LOL). l can only imagine that it is both exciting and exhausting, lots of things to think over later when the brain isn't in overdrive. I've have already had my fill of publicity, when 4 photographers came to M.G. to take pics of me on-site. No they didn't ask me to pout or take my kit off, but feel very embarrassed none the less. They made me sit on the wet grass with a lap-top, pretending to be writing to you, ugh! These things must be l suppose, but l prefer dry soil anyway, you never know l may be in the paper, that'll please my mum.  

Anyway, life seems very exciting in Helsinki, and very close too, what with the Richard Long exhibition on, and meeting folks from VSA, USA. l went with the founder member of the Art House, Pat Sutcliffe to a conference in L.A. a few years ago, we visited the VSA offices. l am not quite sure what l think about the set up, it's bad to make judgements when you know very little. They work very differently from the Art House. Do have a lovely time between all the business, and let me have some information on the piece of work you showed there, as l am interested in dance too.  

Mount Grace must seem very far away, in more ways than one. This weekend will be the biggy. Feet and masks are a simple on-going thing, fun to do, a few visitors, staff and gardeners have added their prints, but l do need a lot more, no problem. Now it's time to begin the big piece, as my experience with plaster is very limited l find myself a little worried, no terrified would be more like it. David isn't worried at all, which keeps me cool. He's had a lot of experience with plaster (but in a building capacity), he also has a knack of picking things up easily (from pottery to jewellery making), so  I am sure it'll be alright. Working this way, and expecting to come up with the goods is a very pressurising way to work,but l am sure it'll stretch my talents, I hope.  

The picture of the arch was a stone rubbing, not really part of the work, but fun. If we do get this talk/do going on-site I'll hang it up in the marquee, for fun. So keep your fingers crossed, it's Thunderbirds are go time. Do look after yourself, l am sure with such a punishing schedule it's hard to make time for yourself. l am off now for a few day offs. I am back on-site Saturday afternoon with my overalls, ready for action.  

Lots of love from your e-mail friend 

Rita