the statue (2009)

These photographs are a selection from 'The Statue' series. The series were first presented as part of my ceramics installation for 'The Graduate Exhibition' at Camberwell College of Arts, which examined the relationship between the object and image.

Each performance and photograph features a specifically made handcrafted ceramic body-sculpture, which were inspired by classical sculptures of two archetypal male persona's - 'The Warrior' and 'The Classical Adonis'.

THEY AWAIT FOR THEIR PRESENCE TO BE ACKNOWLEDGED; FOR THEIR PHYSICAL EXISTENCE TO TRANSGRESS AND TRANSFORM. BOUNDARIES BETWEEN OBJECTS AND IMAGES BECOME FLUID, AND THE OBJECT LIVES TO SERVE ITS IMAGE

Taking ceramics as a concept, my performances, photographs and sculptures play with the placement and definition of the ceramic artefact, suggesting new and alternative ways of seeing the object. The pieces are meticulously crafted body sculptures, whose true meaning is only revealed when captured within the fleeting moment of the photograph. The objects are given new life by displacing them from their traditional realm as an autonomous tactile object, and presenting them within a world of fantasy and images.

Iconic signs and symbols used in the worlds of fashion and haute couture to construct personal identity are translated into these ceramic images and body sculptures. These sculptures masquerade as apparel, and are central to my contrived performances of archetypal masculine ideals. Whether it be adorning myself with Grecian draping, weighty armour, or the power suit – these are all alternative constructs to my male persona. Through the ceramic image, all perceptions are blurred – manipulating both the identity and presence of my sculptures and myself.