Human form inspires artist Sinead’s creativity

Versatile in her art, Sinead is equally talented working in 2D as in 3D, and at varying scales, taking inspiration for her pieces from her life experiences and the human form.

Here she talks to The Impartial Reporter about her artistic style, her favourite project, to date, and what art means to her.

What is your artistic background?

I HAVE definitely been artistically driven from a very young age; I think every child has the natural ability to express themselves creatively and, thankfully, my parents encouraged that.

I completed a BTEC and Foundation diploma in South West College and I am now in my final year of studying a BaHons in Design at Liverpool Hope University.

What inspires your art?

EXPERIENCE would be the driving inspiration for most of my work. Coming from a large, mixed-race family, many of us have had very different experiences in society.

Whether it has been an issue of race, gender or political beliefs, it has been eye-opening from a young age how discrimination affects people depending on their circumstances, so this has always inspired me to explore these issues in my work.

Attending life drawing classes is also a huge inspiration for me; having that intimate relationship with the body and model is a fascinating experience, and is invaluable in regards to improving technical skills.

Who/what are your biggest influences?

I FEEL very fortunate to be born in Ireland, surrounded by ancient beauty and fascinating history, but there is also a tremendous amount of chaos and complexities with identity, religion and politics, all of which heavily influences my work.

My perseverance in understanding and challenging these different aspects of my own culture and experience is something that naturally embeds itself in each project I encounter.

I also take influence from historical contexts such as ancient Greek sculpture, works from Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo, to name but a few.

[I like] to further explore and compare these historical thinkers and artists with modern-day sculptors such as Kiki Smith, Emma Rodgers and Claire Curneen, and other amazing artists.

Is there a specific place that you do your work?

LIKE many other artists over the past year, I have been doing much of my work from home.

Thankfully, I was chosen for an Artist Residency at Roads Studios in Liverpool, which has been a fantastic experience, and I am luckily able to use the university studios twice a week.

What has been your most ambitious piece, to date?

IT WOULD probably be using my own body and face for a mixed media sculptural outcome over lockdown.

It’s quite daunting and surreal putting your figure and frame on display and seeing yourself from an objective point of view, but it’s extremely empowering as well.

I also think having to adapt to working at home while universities were completely closed forced me to use methods and materials I probably wouldn’t have thought to use as much before.

What different artistic media do you use and which is your favourite?

I HAVE been very fortunate to have tutors that have been extremely nurturing and encouraging of experimentation and exploration in a range of artistic disciplines.

I use processes in textiles, ceramics, metal and two-dimensional art.

In recent years, I have focused on specialising in figurative ceramics; however, it’s inevitable for there to be overlaps and an integration of these disciplines in my design process.

What are you currently working on?

I AM currently working on a self-directed project for my end of year Degree Show, which is my modern-day interpretation of the Biblical story, The Creation of Eve.

Using sculpture and 2D experimental works, I’m aiming to create a chapel-like atmospheric installation, that I suppose would contradict the artworks that will be on display.

It will be my first time creating an installation, so I’m very excited!

Do you exhibit your work anywhere?

I’VE HAD some really fun class exhibitions in each year of my study. In my Foundation year, in 2018, we exhibited our work at Waterways Ireland. This was my first exhibition and it was an amazing experience.

I’ve also exhibited work in Liverpool during each year at university which has also been very valuable.

I’m soon to be exhibiting in The Blue Coat Display Centre in May, which I’m so grateful for being chosen for.

A silver lining during lockdown has been an increase in virtual exhibitions, which I was excited to be a part of as well.

‘Femininity Undefined Exploring Womanhood’, by Connect with Arts, was a lovely exhibition to be involved in.

Any new artistic ventures planned for 2021?

I AM hoping to be accepted into Cardiff Met University to study for a Masters Degree in ceramics.

The course sounds phenomenal, so I’m eager to continue my development and expertise in this field.

What has been your favourite project, to date?

THIS is tough, as each project is sort of a progression from the last, and I enjoy them all so much.

I would say it would be the Waterways Ireland exhibition, as it was the first time I was able to infuse so many different processes and materials.

My focus was on the pressures of the female body and the impact society has on young women to look perfect, so it was kind of the starting point for me to gain a bit of an attitude with my artworks, and it’s just progressed since then.

What are you up to when you aren’t creating art?

MOST of the time I go on nature walks with my dog. I guess, in light of the past year, I’m focusing on immersing myself in nature and appreciating the value of being outdoors and meeting friends in more serene environments.

When I’m home, I love to go out on the lough in my dad’s little boat. I’ve always been passionate about music, so I enjoy singing and playing the piano when I have spare time.

How would you describe your artistic style?

I WOULD describe my artistic style as conceptual, socially-driven and visceral.

I have been told that some of my work hints at the grotesque and ritualistic, which I kind of love!

What does your art mean to you?

FOR me, it’s my method of communicating and analysing my thoughts and beliefs.

My art is very much a personal process; like many other creatives, I’m sure, I often find myself feeling brain-scattered and interested in a million things at once.

So my practice is a way for me to focus and critically think, and to reflect on my own life in a more structured format.

Attempting to make order out of chaos in a creative way provides me with a progressive outlet to articulate my thoughts in general day to day life, and in a world where so many feel undervalued and unheard, for me it’s an impactful way to demand awareness and hopefully transform perceptions.