Act

Act (2023), part of a larger body of work entitled ‘Unadornability’, it explores the unadorable circumstance, language and diktat of the contentious Illegal Migration Bill. Altering the position and place of words with meandering fluidity and calm address, silk scarfs and pocket squares were created as outwardly wearable statements of peace. In this form, the owner is afforded a personal power, worn or displayed for their own personal, mindful reflection of societal constructs. Importantly, they also afford the wearer discretional safety, unlike a placard or badge, they choose in the folding when they wish to engage outwardly on the subject. A factor that sadly requires consideration due to the unrest the wider topic of migration experiences.

Paper sculptures were originally made from the shredded strips of the bill before being photographed and journeying onto silk.  A series of verses were created from redacted text were performed to a live audience in March 2023, while a short film and an assemblage including a deck chair and beach towels (which feature the bill) complete this theme.