What do you aim to say by the themes in your art?

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My art is quite political at times and references the global climate. I aim to address issues that are prevalent, and in doing so, aim to influence viewers in a bold, confronting manner. My art is not delicate in the sense that it takes on complex and serious matters in an unambiguous way. The ‘Three Pieces of Meat’ references the stereotypical norms surrounding the purpose of women in the eyes of men. I am to evoke emotions in viewers through such pieces and to help them understand situations visually.
 

Where does your inspiration come from?

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Often, the source of my ideas will begin with something seemingly unrelated. For this work, I started off researching beasts and creatures, looking specifically at animals. From there, the idea of flesh and meat came into play and one aspect I was struck by were animal carcasses showcased in shop windows as well as packaged meat. I started to explore how a man should be regarded as beasts rather than animals, which led me to my final idea. Sometimes, I will read a book and a thought or idea might appeal to me. Or I look at other artists and draw from their technique.

Do you have any experiences that have impacted your art?

 

There is no one experience that has alone impacted my art; however, I believe that my passion for art accelerated when I saw the Sistine Chapel in Italy for the first time. Michelangelo’s frescoes were very intriguing to my 13-year-old self. Although my art wasn’t directly influenced by his style, seeing such grand paintings left me with a curiosity about art history. In addition, taking GCSE Art exposed me to different forms such as printing, paintings, sculpting and drawing. I gained a plethora of knowledge through experimentation.

Do you feel your art challenges existing barriers?

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As my art addresses societal concerns, it should challenge the generalized preconceptions surrounding the topics. What audiences see in my art could help raise awareness of those problems. In terms of style, I approach my art in an intriguing manner and aim to create something unique and untraditional. I make bold decisions that show themselves through the work.

 What are your long-term artistic goals?

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I hope to continue doing art in the future and I would like to incorporate my artistic personality into whichever career I choose. I want to keep on experimenting with various mediums and try styles I haven’t tried before so that I can gain a better sense of my own style.

 What advice do you have for aspiring artists?

 

The advice I would give to aspiring artists is not to stick to one technique or aspect of art and to delve out of your comfort zone. Exploring different themes and methods of art and doing trials and experiments with them is a very important part in discovering your own individual style later.

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