"FAMILY PANELS",2024, ECA DEGREE SHOW.
My practice delves deeply into my Yorkshire heritage, boldly and proudly representing my upbringing in the North. Utilising a vibrant palette and abstract forms, I construct a visual language that encapsulates my interpretation of the region's rich history and culture. Drawing inspiration from the mining and workers unions, my work adopts a banner format, reminiscent of protest banners, serving as a homage to the resilience and spirit of these communities.
My artwork serves as a medium for sharing my profound pride for my Yorkshire heritage and seeks to empower the viewer by evoking a sense of collective belonging and resilience. Central to my exploration is the colloquial Yorkshire dialect, which I weave seamlessly into my compositions. Currently, I'm employing the historical symbol of the Yorkshire Rose as a visual motif to further connect with my cultural roots.
In my creative process, text emerges as a prominent element, serving as both a narrative device and a form of mark-making within my paintings. Employing a diverse range of layering techniques and mixed media, I create intricate patterns that echo the visual language of union banners.
The driving force behind my art stems from a sense of alienation experienced in environments distanced from my home. Through my practice, I strive to challenge and dismantle Northern stereotypes while celebrating the multifaceted beauty and richness of the North East's cultural tapestry.
