Henry Blackshaw Art: June 2012

Sunday 24 June 2012

Artist Statement

I often get asked about my silks: how I see them and what I'm trying to convey. Here's my take on them..

I make my silks to be like contemporary artefacts, or ceremonial hangings for present day problems. I see them as falling somewhere in between being an object and a drawing.

My works are seductive like the silk on which they're made. I am interested in exploring a particular type of beauty; one where something light, burnt and seemingly flimsy attracts, and hopefully de-centres, its audience.

I always make my silks to have a specific function: whether as an alternative flag, a scarf for a loved one, or ceremonial banner. For me, they have more to share and tell when they have a sense of use.

Lastly, because my silks are so light, they move if caught by a draft or if someone walks closely by them. They shimmer; they respond to the space and the people in it. It is as if after everything that has been invested in them, they come to us to bring us news.