With my MA show, I have developed a narrative to explore layers of perception. Using line to draw on paper, canvas, the bite of the print, and the physicality of wire, I've made art to depict images of myself and others with similar Queer identities, elevated from a stance of erasure.
Often, my practice is predominantly two-dimensional, centred on drawing and mark-making. MA studies have encouraged me to work with new mediums and materials to explore three-dimensional work, including sculpture, casting, and ‘drawing’ with metal to create sculptures.
Exquisite Corpse of Identity
Creating a ‘playground sculpture around the themes of letting go, not defining myself by boxes or fitting a round peg into a square hole, but embracing the multi-dimensional aspects of one's being, letting go of those restrictive preconceived and pigeonholing narratives.
Rachel Collier-Wilson (They\Them)
Exquisite Corpse of Identity
Painted and drawn MDF Boxes, 55 x 55 x 180 cm
Exhibited as part of Queerfest Norwich in the exhibition ‘Interrupt’ February 2024
“Playing with the idea of gender. Something that is not taught in the playground. I constructed a life size pile of building blocks which can twist to change the view of my different personas. Each block can be twisted to combine different elements of the characters portrayed.”
Referencing works such as exquisite corpse game from the surrealist movement, combined with imagery addressing identity, gender and a superhero persona ‘Super dyke’ : Invisible Lesbian; In Death, Still Lesbian; All The Fun of The Bear; Super Hero Dyke.
Printed Impressions at St Maire's Cathedral, Sheffield
St Marie’s Cathedral has worked in partnership with the Sheffield Printmakers Association to present a unique group exhibition that features a selection of artworks created by thirteen talented printmakers.
The exhibition brings together a wide range of innovative styles and printing techniques, from woodcut to drypoint, all the way through to linocut and collagraph.
Artists have sought inspiration in the exquisite architecture, art and design of St Marie’s Cathedral after taking part in specially tailored guided tours. These printmakers have undeniably succeeded in capturing and conveying the beauty and the many subtleties of this place of worship in surprising ways. St Marie’s evocative light, rich colours, silent and devotional space, transparency of the glass, intricate patterns or expressive textures are definitely present in these pieces.
Some artworks have easily recognisable features, while others show more abstract elements. However, as one would expect, all of them are incredibly personal and subjective, which makes them equally fascinating, beautiful and inspiring.
St Peter at the gate and Mother and Child, two colour woodcuts. May 2017
