Artist Statement

I have experienced a challenging relationship with my identity and sexuality, often feeling out of place from a young age. Through my work I aim to provide a refreshing break from negative feelings towards queer identity by promoting inclusivity, equality, belonging and choice. It has become increasingly important for me to eradicate the idea that the queer community is viewed as ‘the other’ within the heteronormative society. One of the things I find most powerful about my art is the potential to position people in a conversation they did not know was theirs to explore. I hope to make paintings that are a refuge for those of us who experience ambiguity on a daily basis, and as a means to unlock the potential for ambiguity within those who have never had cause to question their own identity position. My work aspires to allow the queer community to feel that they have a voice.  Thus, allowing the heteronormative onlooker to appreciate and understand the struggles we face when searching for our identity. Initially, more documentation of queer identity, the evolution of producing my collages has taken a more ambiguous form of self-expression. I experimented with the use of acrylic paints and gesso to create a textured base beneath that subverts the ‘clean’ structure of the original image. It is not until you read the hidden scripture that you realise the intentions, and take the time to understand the struggles of a ‘closeted’ teenage boy.