Artist statement

Solace explores the idea of comfort through the formal and personal contexts. Beds are our habitat for so much of our lives; a place of relaxation that allows us to feel at ‘home’ and true to ourselves, and of peaceful vulnerability. The representation of generic white linen in Solace appeals to the sense of familiarity and the aromatic lavender brings forth feelings of relaxation. The accompanying crisp, ironed and folded sheets juxtapose the crumpled, indented bed composition, serving to emphasise the human presence that has so evidently sought solace in the bed. The sculpted pillows carry impressions created by sleeping heads. These, however, belie the truth: the hard, cold plaster has been deliberately manipulated into false hollows, leading the viewer to question their initial impressions. The small scale conveys intimacy, prompting closer inspection, and reflects the fragility of one's emotions despite outward appearances.

Process

To develop ideas around comfort, I began photographing my crumpled bed sheets, taking inspiration from Gonzalez-Torres’s Untitled. I started painting using a monochromatic colour scheme and glazing with oil paint to build layers of modelled tone. Form and shadow imply dimension and human presence. For the plaster pillows, I poured plaster into sandwich bags then used various objects such as rocks to add weight and create hollow spaces where one’s head would lie. The aim was to create pillows that appeared to have been slept on. 

About the artist

As a young artist, my main motivations and inspirations are to communicate values and messages I think the world needs to hear. I believe art is a very powerful tool that opens creativity and allows the audience to learn how to become independent when expressing their values and beliefs. We live in a world where creativity is often looked down upon and my goal is to inspire people to fire their creativity. I am extremely honoured to be selected into this year’s Creative Generations Excellence awards.