ARTIST STATEMENT
'I have a woman inside my soul' suggests the power one can wield from dissociating from the cultural constraints of being female. The use of a breastfeeding bra and skirt strongly represent symbols of womanhood, as does the use of wool which portrays warmth, nurture and comfort. The woollen mask relinquishes societal responsibilities to be desirable, compliant and good and instead leaves the audience questioning who is this formidable, mysterious woman? With her identity blurred and morphed, it leaves us pondering her role, her capabilities, her inspirations, her passions, her quintessential self.
ARTWORK PROCESS
The work began from a conceptual standpoint, as I had always marvelled with the concept of hidden identity. I began my art making process by experimenting with wool, as I have always loved textiles and wearable art. I looked at artists like Nick cave and Del Kathryn Barton for inspiration. I created the mask first, by trial and error, modelling it on my face and then going back over with more wool. I freehanded the skirt, simply making the pattern as I went on. I extended my work by taking photos of my sister and mum to wearing my work.
