ARTIST STATEMENT
Have words lost their meaning? Do you know what an ‘allergy’ is? I was truly concerned that others didn't understand. I began to ask myself, are images; artful, exaggerated, constructed, and manipulated, the only way I can translate the things I go through into tangible, understandable reality? Allergies, like anaphylaxis and eczema are so complex, that I can't expect that others will ever fully relate to my reality. Every symptom, every sensation, every reaction, every treatment is unique, so it’s difficult to comprehend the fear that sits below the surface.
This work aims to engage an audience enough that they will stop and think.
ARTWORK PROCESS
The works were inspired by a 'thought experiment' on our Authentic Experience to the wetlands when I related my allergies to the unravelling of nature. At the time, I was searching for a language to talk about how I feel during an outbreak of eczema or anaphylaxis. I began by taking photographs of my own face and body during a reaction and then, as I learned Photoshop, I realised what a valuable tool it would be to 'paint' my complex, layered experience using colour and texture. By printing to acrylic, I was also able to further the layering effect.
