Artist statement

The Cost portrays a pixelated, young female garment worker. Her distorted figure is painted on various clothing price tags as a prompt for the viewer to consider the consequences of their choices as consumers. The abusive and dangerous conditions that garment workers in developing countries experience is brought into focus – ironically – through the unfocused, monochromatic figure. Although stripped of her individuality, she is still clearly recognisable as a young girl, urging audiences to question their choices and feel compassion, shame and possibly guilt.

Process

An image of a child sweatshop worker was digitally manipulated into a pixelated image, which was then painted onto a collection of cardboard clothing tags using acrylic paint. These cardboard tags were then installed onto a white wall.

About the artist

Creating art has always ben a very important part of my life and being selected in the 'Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art' is a very big deal for me. Visual Art in school has been my favourite subject as well as a safe space for me. After school, I hope to continue to be able to express myself creatively whatever I choose to do.