Heritage is one of two overarching themes flowing through my work, where inspiration emanates from a rich spectrum of heritage references and sources. I am first captivated by the serendipitous investigation and research process—hunting amongst dusty shelves in local archives and collections, rigorous treks through online digital resources, the procurement of artefacts at auctions or flea markets, and the interpretation of local heritage.
Stories (non-fictional and fictional) that emerge from this historical research, primarily dictate the artistic outcomes, and narratives may evolve through photography, printmaking, drawing, textiles, digital print, text, multimedia or installation. Work may be in response to a genuine archived object, heritage material, person or era. However, alternatively, it may entail creating an invented artefact—belonging to a historically plausible character who ‘inhabits’ an imaginary life. A process that allows me to investigate as an artist, historian, explorer, anthropologist and storyteller.
Artefacts belonging to my fictional characters are typically presented, to audiences or participants as genuine historical objects. This representation comes not from the intention to deceive the viewer but rather to provide a moment of romantic escapism, a vehicle to slip into another time and place.
Nature is another persisting theme in my practice, and where heritage intersects with nature is a facet of particular interest. The interconnections between these two themes demonstrate our deep-rooted relationship with the natural world’s pervading influence. Works typically incorporate narratives exemplifying a reverence for nature and personifying the intoxicating effect of nature on the soul.
Storytelling through these two themes evolves into objects, installations and exhibitions. Extending through my engaged practice, residencies and projects, I undertake explorations into historical affairs or events, local history, cultural artefacts, the natural world, or oral histories of a specific community.
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