Artist Statement

My work has evolved from a great interest in recycling and reusing materials, and through exploration I have considered the essential characteristics of materials and how they can be changed to have new life in a completely different context. This transformational approach is only part of my work; it also has to portray something that is of significance to me. I am inspired by Scottish landscapes; therefore I photograph and draw the natural environment. Being Scottish myself it helps me to express the connection that I have with this country and explore the aspects that I find stunning and precious. My work explores texture and layering, giving a great feeling of depth, warmth, beauty and friendliness. My starting point is unconventional in that the material used is predominantly black and white plastic film containers, and may not seem particularly in keeping with traditional Scottish crafts. However, the extent of my enquiry into the material, through cutting, texturing and forming, draws out an unexpected empathy with the natural Scottish environment and one which I feel compliments it. Through my work I also consider the preciousness of the Scottish environment and the impact that our wasteful lifestyles are having on it.

I recognise the sense of apathy that some feel about the issue of recycling and sustainability, however I feel that increasing awareness through design is much less sanctimonious than campaigning can be. I feel this could help to change behaviour and attitudes by example, showing that further beauty and usefulness can be brought out from these discarded objects, and that they should not be cast to the scrap heap for eternity. I feel there needs to be a greater understanding of the small changes that can be made that will eventually turn into a more significant change.