Artist Statement

My practice serves as a record of a moment in time—a memorial to a year I refuse to let fade into obscurity. It is a tribute to my home, a once-vibrant northern town, and the final calendar year of a beloved town centre bar, the last of its kind. Through my work, I construct a visual narrative of social heritage shaped by fashion, music, and culture, emerging from a place that is often overlooked by mainstream culture.

Central to this work are the 50 jackets I wore each weekend during that pivotal year, each adorned with badges that memorialise the artists who inspired me, the badges as artwork and the jackets as gallery walls. These jackets become both artifact and canvas, bearing witness to a culture built on self-expression, resilience, and identity. The badges pay homage to the music, cinema, art, and cultural icons of the late 20th century, whose contributions to culture resonate deeply in my work.

This approach draws on the legacy of artists like Jeremy Deller, whose work often elevates collective memory and subcultural narratives, and Joe Tilson, who integrates pop culture and personal symbolism into his visual language. Similarly, Jim Lambie’s vibrant installations use everyday objects and music references to evoke personal and shared experiences, while the wearable aspect of my work also aligns with Lucy Orta, whose transformative garments connect fashion with storytelling and social commentary.

This project is a celebration of the creative forces that shaped a generation and continue to inspire. By reimagining these cultural references, my work becomes a memorial in perpetuity, ensuring that these narratives and influences remain visible and vital. Through this lens, my art stands as a testament to the enduring impact of community, creativity, and the power of shared memories.