ARTIST STATEMENT
‘Tender Care’ explores growing out of childhood as a collective human experience. The sculptural form representing red coloured rope is something many of us associate with fun as children; a durable substance prominent in many playgrounds. The use of surface materials such as feathers and fabric however, symbolises tender innocence we all once shared. This artwork's purpose is to prompt reflection in the audience around their own identity and personal growth. To question, is it possible to achieve a harmonious balance between the resilience needed as an adult and the fragility of what's left of our childhood innocence?
ARTWORK PROCESS
‘Tender Care’ takes influence from artists Louise Weaver and Kate MccGwire through their exploitation of traditional materials and techniques in new or unexpected ways. Using found and recycled bubble wrap with wire from old coat hangers within, an armature was made into the desired form. Repurposed fabric was sewn to the base of the structure, left to drape and pool on the ground. Collected feathers were then glued into place, layering from the bottom, concealing the start of the fabric to the top where it is left to fray outwards and hung either high against the ceiling or lower down.
