Artist Statement
The core subject of my work addresses cultural identity through an examination of a sense of resilience highlighted during events in Welsh history whilst also concentrating, and celebrating the present.
My intention has been to capture this sense of identity in a powerful and evocative way, not only through a nostalgic lens but in emphasising the continued sense of community, integrity and pride which remains in the present.
My practice embraces photography in a creative manner, along with etching and engraving onto metal and wood salvaged from the Swansea valley in South Wales. Materiality is important to me in highlighting in particular the current challenges of unemployment in the Port Talbot area. Upon returning to the South Wales area the challenging economic climate is very evident when witnessing the closure of previously thriving shops and industries.
I have explored this sense of resilience through research, photography and in interviewing people in the Swansea area. Various material surfaces have been used from each matrix.
The work produced seeks to establish and celebrate a sense of the “here and now” referred to by the artist Robert Rauschenberg, along with the “glistening speech of everyday objects” referenced by Ian Penman in his chapter “Memo” contained within the book "Story Lines” by photographer Robert Frank
This project has been initiated in the Ammanford area, my place of birth, and also by focusing on an established engineering site in Garngoch, Swansea which was established in 1966 and remains a very productive and vibrant work place. Despite challenging times in industry the sense of community, camaraderie and humour remains strong. I am very fortunate in having access to the workshops there and in forging a productive relationship with the staff and owners.
* The Robert Rauschenberg reference is from the book : “LOCI : Rauschenberg Overseas Culture Interchange” the chapter entitled “USA” by Rosetta Brooks.
The book was by the National Gallery of Art, Washington, US and published by Prestel Munich, Thames and Hudson National,1991
* The Robert Frank reference is taken from the book "Story Lines” and the chapter “MEMO” by Ian Penman who provides the books introduction.
“Story Lines” by Frank, Robert and published in London by London Tate, 2004.