Public, Collaborative, Temporary, Socially Engaged [Art/Design]
I often call myself a ‘public artist’ as virtually all the work I create is shown within some form of public space. The work I make is generally site-specific, in that it is created specifically (both physically and conceptually) for the place in which it is shown. Sites have included shopping centers, churches, buses, beaches, websites, billboards and in one case a TV program.
My work is primarily a method for exploring issues and ideas. I do this by working with individuals and groups of people most of whom have very different opinions and life experiences to mine. Generally the only clear point of connection between us is the subject of the work.
The work starts as a process - a large conversation - and becomes concrete through a shared desire to extend this conversation to include a wider audience.
Since 1999 I have also taught on, and now lead, the undergraduate Visual Communication course at Leeds Arts University. Several of the projects presented here have been collaborations with the amazing students and staff I’ve worked with over the years.