ARTIST STATEMENT
I am inspired by the sea to create emotional artworks that inspire awe and empathy in my audience to act on climate change and pollution. Coral bleaching was the personal and cultural focus that inspired, Bleached to the bone, specifically the human impact of using plastics. Stylised, bleached and ghost-like forms combine in this wearable art creation, inspired by the innovative artworks of Joel Harlow and Iris Van Herpen. Explorations of formal contexts capitalised on the sculptural qualities of melted plastic and the creation of subtle textures and light. An innovative, beautiful aesthetic captures the translucent nature of this everyday construction material.
ARTWORK PROCESS
This wearable artwork, headpiece and accessories were constructed from hot glue (Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA)), LED lights and aluminium wire. A bodice was made from plastic packing tape with individual motifs glued into place and fused together and were also attached to the shoes. A wire structure was formed for the headpiece and arm bands with coral motifs attached with EVA. Details were highlighted on the headpiece using silver leaf. LED lights were attached under the bodice and along the coral in order to diffuse and highlight particular forms.
