I have spent most of my life creating art in many forms and have worked for over two decades with people (and the spirit of people) who are more beautiful and more valuable because they have been broken and have survived. I truly believe that nothing is beyond repair or repurposing if you open yourself to its potential. Even death can bring life in other forms.
I feel inspired by the art form Kintsugi. By repairing and repurposing, it celebrates an objects unique history by emphasizing the fractures and breaks instead of hiding or disguising them. Kintsugi often makes the repaired piece even more beautiful than the original, revitalizing the artefact with new life.
As an activist and campaigner and occasional performance artist, I understand how much the arts play an integral part in change and awareness on a huge scale. In additional response to the ongoing refugee crisis, I am currently repurposing a number of vinyl records (that are unplayable), sheet music and world maps that will be turned into tail feathers to create a colourful plume and Strawberry Fair Parade costume that embraces music, culture and freedom across the world.
A costume piece reflecting the Strawberry Fair 2016 theme of wildlife, combined with freedom of movement that is a Music Without Borders ethos.