Artist's Statement
I have a deep passion for nature and its protection, which inspires all my work. I believe that narrative, particularly folklore and mythology can help us better understand all living things and how we need each other to survive.
My sculptures are inspired by narrative from all over the world and also my own experiences of being with nature. Sometimes I write my own short stories to give a contemporary twist to a theme. I like to step into this other world, to explore the world of the unfamiliar.
The work I create sometimes has roots within other cultures and may appear deliberately mysterious or strange. Romania is very close to my heart and often I include traces of its culture within my work. At the same time, I find sources of inspiration wherever I am.
My research interests include looking at animals that are generally feared and disliked such as the wolf, bats and moths, that are so important to the future of this planet. It is interesting that in some cultures such animals are revered and I again think there is a lot to learn from this.
I illustrate my work using very fine brushes and gouache and hand print these images onto metal sheets. My designs often incorporate illusory symbols that relate to the piece’s theme. For instance, a lacy skirt might on closer inspection be composed of spiders, wolves, snowflakes or birds. My intention is to continue highlighting the traditions of folklore as a way of commenting on what I experience in the here and now.
I have spent several years working with newly arrived women and children to the UK and have come to realise that nature is important to everyone which is why we all need to work together to ensure its survival.