As a designer, maker, and photographer, Ali Gradischer’s artist talk "Promised Concentration" will touch upon the challenges, rewards, unexpected adventures, and inspirations that can come from an artist residency. Inspired by her 2013 Nes Artist Residency in Skagaströnd, Iceland, this presentation will address the body of work that was produced out of this unique environment and experience. Additionally, Gradischer will address how this convergence of landscape, culture, and studio practice will continue during her upcoming residency in Germany. Focusing on themes of geography and remoteness, Promised Concentration aims to illustrate how the process of application, acceptance, and adventure surrounding artist residencies all commemorate seasons of making, story telling, and creative growth. The artwork presented in this artist talk was funded in part by : Oregon Arts Commission, Regional Arts and Culture Council, and Kickstarter.