Statement of Intent 22

Over the past few years, I have been exploring themes surrounding self-exploration and dissecting of identity. A major part of my life was consumed recently by health issues, and so was what my work evolved around. However, I was able to make a conclusion that depending on the nationality the importance that is placed on motherhood differs. This influence of nationality is what I wanted to explore this time round, a topic that has always in some way impacted what I was creating. I grew up an immigrant, with a strong bond to the country I came from (Poland). What role does nationality play in one’s identity? For many, immigrating means adapting and acclimating to their new home and nationality no longer matters, for those it has a much stronger presence. I want to use my own experience and place my own importance on the place I am from however I also want to discuss and present how others find theirs. What about those that are mixed race? How does that change their approach?

A strong sense of need for national identity can be seen in Scotland since it has been in the British grasp since the 18^th century. Poland on the other hand more recently wasn’t on the maps for 123 years and was occupied by the Soviets for many more. The two countries can relate to one another and yet have totally different positions. I want to see how artists from these two countries present their nations and what importance does it play in who they are. Through varied research such as gallery visits, book or internet searches, questionnaires, and other methods I plan to create a thorough investigation.

Last year I worked through figural sculpture, and this year I plan to continue using the body as a base. A vessel. The human body can be a representation, however, doesn’t always show what else makes up a person. I want to find a new shape. After getting to know more about the art of woodwork I want to further deepen the use of this material. Wood can be tough, and yet fragile and degrading. Those features are what make it beautiful and symbolic. Nonetheless, combining media can present further space for symbolism and representation (ceramics, stone, paper, fabrics). I would like drawing to greater influence my work, and so I intend for it to be a more prominent part of my practice.

Sculptors such as Gwiazda, Lüpertz, Demetz and Balkenhol are my inspiration for the chosen process. Marc Quinn presents such expressions that I have found myself constantly returning to (especially after seeing his casts in person at the Belvedere). Seeing Matisse’s ‘Back’ series at the Tate in London is what triggered the idea of dissecting a body and finding a new shape. Artists that I have taken an interest in for the theme have been: Nicole McLaughlin, John Bellany, Jerzy Duda-Gracz and Lubiana Himid. An exhibition titled Uncensored – Polish Independent Art of the 1980s at U-jazdowski, Poland featured many artists and work covering topics very close to my points of interest and therefore I would like to delve deeper into the time era and the artists showcased.

Gabriela Proszowska

30.09.2022