This page offers you an insight into the concepts underpinning 'Affirmation'. You can also link to interviews with the artist, offer your feedback on the show and register for a chance to receive a limited edition print of Misplaced.

The work is attempting to communicate, to stand up and have its say. Although, it’s success is left to the subjective interpretation from viewer, as there are no written explanations alongside the sculptures or photographs, no verbal commentary over the film. Left then to the viewer bringing something individual to the show, bringing their experiences, their ‘hang-ups’ and concerns. So, ironic then that I have entitled my latest show ‘Affirmation’ in that I felt it would visualize my feelings, I would be making that stand to all who wished to see but this is a language people are not so familiar with and confusion will inevitably set in. 

I am purposefully adding to this confusion through the embodiment of my ideas in the production of ‘bodies’, particularly my ‘body’ becoming canvas and subject. My initial concern fuelling the work is the level of importance put upon and judgement of body/surface/image and in an attempt to convey my response I am only adding to the ‘bodies’ on view to be publically scrutinised. 

Through the projection of a film covering the gallery wall showing an obsessive routine of cleansing, plucking, concealing etc, I am attempting to undo the discrete nature, these hidden or closeted acts of ‘feminine disguise’ made public. After all, this body of mine/ this face is only a moment in time. I am bound by my physicality but this shouldn’t be upon what I am judged.

A triptych of canvases depicting varying states of female ’ness’ using make-up, fat, chocolate and other viscous materials struggle to speak to the viewer. It embodies the skeletal, sexual and suffering self – one body moving through each state.

The work, which attempts to convey a solution, a positive alternative depicts figurative sculpture and photography showing myself as provider, supporter, and carer for others before myself. Based on a parable showing how a ‘heaven’ can be created here on Earth, a steel framework acts as a cage to my body with elongated arms into knife and fork. If I were to choose to feed myself, I would starve. It has become impossible due to these metal attachments. In an attempt to offer some sort of answer or alternative route, I am removing the focus/ importance away from the self, image, surface and towards a more spiritual communication, beyond the physical.

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Your chance to be entered into the prize draw to receive a free limited edition framed print
of Misplaced (20x86cm) as shown above.

Simply click here to submit your details by 27 July 2006

The winning entry will be notified by email on 28 July 2006. Please allow 28 days for delivery which wil be free within the UK. Copyright for this work will remain with the artist. If you have any questions regarding the prize draw or delivery please contact us.