A colourful display of florals as my love letter to the women of the Renaissance art era. This work pays homage to those courageous women who were often denied access to art spaces or receiving art education. I wish to show gratitude for the path they’d paved for people like me and the impact of their work until this day. This show will serve as a reminder of my commitment to sharing stories of women and marginalised communities through my art.
Through this collection, we are reminded of the unwavering strength and untapped talents of the women who were only allowed to make their mark in history through still-life and floral paintings. My wish is to echo their silent struggles and undying determination, inviting you to contemplate the power of art as a means of liberation for women throughout history.
Driven by the same spirit of resilience and rebellion of those women, I had used colour onto the canvas, capturing the essence of nature's beauty in blooming flowers. These stand as symbolic representations of the creative yearnings that women of the past dared to express, even under constrained circumstances. Though feeling privileged to be able to freely make this collection, creative restrictions continue until this day within the art world.
As you immerse yourselves in this visual journey, I invite you to reflect upon the importance of artistic expression and the freedom it brings not only for the women of the renaissance, but for all generations. Let these paintings be a tribute to the untold stories of those who fought for creative freedom and a celebration of artistic prowess that knows no bounds.
Finally, I find beauty in creating artwork for the sake of painting pretty things. These floral pieces are the contrast to my politically motivated work at Carclew whereby I highlight the issues with capitalism through a Monopoly board installation. Not only do I refuse to let my gender define my work, but debuting two completely different exhibitions at once is my rejection for creative or artistic restrictions.
May you find inspiration in my work and words as we commemorate the strength and resilience of the women who painted the beauty of the world with their hearts and souls. My wish for you is to leave the exhibition with a new perspective on art and the people behind the creation.
More information on SALA https://www.salafestival.com/artfuel/program/view/9380/emerging