There is birth and death and everything in between is life. The observation that art is life has become a cliché, yet like most, it is born from an element of truth. From the beginning to the end there are countless moments which we either feel connected to, or disconnected and suspect a lack of meaning or consequence. Over time this becomes a breathing rhythm unique to every individual. And just as it is true for the individual so it is true for the human race. The marvellous chain of birth and death links us all equally. Paradoxically though, our choice to connect or disconnect to our lives is of our own free will, yet the individual choice affects the other. In this sense there is no disconnection. Everything and everybody is connected whether they feel like it or not.
Whilst it is easy to argue the individuals right to free choice as debated in such issues as democracy, suicide, euthanasia and abortion, it is far more difficult to fight for the right of humanity now or the right to life for future generations (not to mention other species and the planets right to a healthy existence). These rights have such enormous value and complexity that, it is easier for people to rationalize away piece by piece for economic gain. Considering our environmental pollution coupled with an ever increasing ethos of consumption and rising nuclear activity we are threatening to destroy our very existence. Whilst it is true that life will go on even if we choose to disconnect to ourselves and each other, it will be our children and grandchildren who will live with our choice to disconnect. With consequences seen in the Chernobyl disaster, including genetic retardation, growing numbers of infant lymphoma and whole portions of land and food sources off limits to human life, yes life does go on but it may not be pretty. (1)
Certainly without life there is no art. This motivates me as an artist to express a deeper connection with life through our environment which is responsible for our existence. I look to artists for approach only, as concepts must be my own and heartfelt to be authentic and successful. I perceive the artists I admire and respect as inspirational because they are truthful, and truth is revolution, a waking out of the dream of disconnection. These artists who have influenced my approach to art practise include, Tracy Emin, Gorilla Girls, Calder, Thoreau, Fiona Hall, Valie Export, Rachael Whiteread, and Jenny Holzer. Having worked as an artist in public spaces I keenly feel the need to address the issues of interconnection. I like to use methodologies which are in sync with my views, ephemeral works and installations, biodegradable materials and performance art are my mediums.