'Plain Plastic'

The inspiration for my art work was initially drawn from Marilyn Minter’s shiny and seductive paintings, photographs and videos. I chose female sexuality and the excess of the feminine as my subject matter as I wanted to explore this idea in depth.

I used Barbie to represent what is seen to be the “perfect” female body, in today’s world. Realistically, no female body can look like Barbie, unless it undergoes cosmetic surgery. Why do we want to look like Barbie when she is simply made up of plastic assembled parts?

My main influences are Cindy Sherman, Lisa Yuskavage and Mariel Clayton who all deal with female sexuality in their work. I was particularly interested in the Barbie-like element present in Yuskavage’s and Clayton’s work. Naomi Wolf’s book ‘The Beauty Myth’ gave me great thoughts and ideas.

Manet’s ‘Olympia’ was also in the back of my mind when exploring this idea.

My work is extremely vibrant, luscious and glossy just as I want it to be. The materials used are just as important as the subject matter. I have displayed my work in a series. The Barbie body parts add a sinister touch to my work.

Other artists researched include Frida Kahlo, Amanda Coogan, Paul McCarthy, Anna Gaskall, Nan Goldin and Gerhard Richter.