Violently

Throughout 2016, my work has focussed on the themes of fanaticism and machismo and the ways in which these qualities might be engaged, promoted and utilised as tools of dominance. This investigation continues a long held preoccupation with conflict and resistance that is at the core of my artistic practice.

Indicators of machismo and fanaticism abound in this work: balaclavas render those that wear them both blind and anonymous, butchered testicles are tamed and tickled by wandering trigger-happy fingers, a sightless shark readies itself for attack, man and rooster go head to head, and soldiers duel with guns loaded with testitude.

The use of humour in my work is playful, a little vindictive, and also acts as a conduit for more serious considerations—the investigation of machismo and fanaticism as precursors to and generators of violence.