Great to see you back on board exhibiting at SWELL Sculpture Festival 2017! Tell us about this year’s piece ‘SAFE’?
The art installation is a comment on the emotional, spiritual and physical journey for many victims of domestic violence. SAFE symbolizes a “Safe House” and highlights the moment when the individual begins the journey from victim to survivor. SAFE is a catalyst for change and highlights the importance of emergency shelters for people surviving domestic abuse. SAFE acknowledges the journey of survivors and encourages victims of domestic violence to end the cycle of abuse through prevention, intervention and protection.
What was the inspiration behind ‘SAFE’?
In my late 20s I was a domestic violence councillor working the phones at MRS in Melbourne. We dealt with male perpetrators of domestic abuse. It was a confronting and emotionally challenging time. This chapter in my life along with the ongoing frequency of Domestic Violence is the inspiration behind SAFE.
How would you best sum up your artistic style?
I like to employ various elements of architecture and sculpture when developing my art. I enjoy adapting everyday objects to specific artistic and architectural applications. My aim is to create large scale, contemporary installations that challenge and excite whilst distorting the viewers preconceptions of structures and space. My goal is to use art to promote discussion, encourage debate and raise awareness about injustice and social change.
With so many elements to your work, how do you know when a piece or structure of yours is ‘done’?
Despite my best endeavors the installations will always change and evolve during construction. Often time and money constraints influence the piece and I’m excessively critical when evaluating my work. It’s not unusual for me to restart a project several times until I’m happy with the composition, message, execution, engineering and finish.
As an artist, how have you seen the cultural landscape change on the Gold Coast?
I’ve been exhibiting at Swell since 2014. It’s my favourite sculpture festival in Australia, and it’s run by a professional and inspiring team. The Gold Coast’s approach to public art is progressive, innovative and very exciting. There is a huge pool of incredibly talented and committed artists in and around south east Queensland.
Finally, what’s inspiring you in the world right now?
I’m inspired by artists who have the courage and passion to confront the challenging issues. We all have an opportunity to make a difference through our art and social activism is a major influencer when developing projects. I’m encouraged by those art practitioners willing to make a difference, tell a story, make us think, disrupt and inspire. Art has the potential to be a very powerful medium and as Pablo Picasso once said “ art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life”.
The 15th annual SWELL Sculpture Festival is being held from September 8–17. Jump over here for more info.
