Inspiwrit

The initial theme I chose was Discord. Discord relates to a lack of harmony in the world around us, a disagreement among those expected to cooperate or a cacophony or jarring of sound. Conflict can arise when discord is stirred between religions, communities and within ourselves. Discord can lead to chaos and different forms of discord are often presented clearly in nature and its representation in art. From quarrelling neighbours to political regimes that provoke uprising, discord in our world has led in some nations to all out war.

I began working with the issues of discord and translate them into something beauteous. Busy patterns of wallpaper or fabrics layered together, to shapes created by light and shadow, the colours and patterns of objects: the shadows they make, and the spaces around them, have inspired many to utilise these traits in creating a decorative piece.

Combining these themes of Decoration & Discord, I initially wanted to communicate important issues through a visual design and/or repeat pattern. But to aestheticise violence, bloodshed, disorder or brutality raises other issues. Others may interpret this work to be something of deeper meaning, rather than something that just pleases the eye. Papered walls have always ‘talked’, but the involvement of contemporary design engages the viewer in a radically different dialogue – one that employs some aspects of the traditional visual language of wallpaper, but also uses its power to challenge, oppose and disturb.

Wallpaper’s perceived function is thereby subverted, causing anxiety and unease. However, in using wallpaper to reflect Western culture I aspire to reveal an uncomfortable truth or, by repeating them, rendering them acceptable.

I have found a selection of images and photographs from the media coverage within the past year that depicts varying scenes of disruption or devastation. By either re-appropriating these scenes or creating new designs from elements within them, I have created a series of repeating patterns.