So a new blog a new beginning of sorts. At the moment this is for me. I am not even sure if it will ever be more than that, but here I am and I had a wee notion to record this journey, if only for myself.
So last Thursday, 28th July I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I am 38 years old. I guess this is an introduction to what I am sure will be an interesting journey and I am hoping that through recording my thoughts, hopes, fears and experiences I will be able to look back and see positive changes and a story that I will always be proud of.
I have no plans for this blog – I am very much going with the flow.
About gillianleesmith
A lifetime fascination with storytelling, history, fairytales and folklore, has led me to create imagery based on the everyday whirling mind of a person who does not always wish to be rooted in the realistic present.
Themes of times gone by and reminiscence are especially evident in my designs and my work often delves into the expression and characterisation of our human nature, which we may hide away and only ever glimpse at when prompted by a reflection of our inner selves.
My character sculptures in particular are a nod towards my own imaginations, avid reading and childhood dreams. They are a way of seeking the perfect representation of our character. Each tells an original tale, with a single image that endeavors to embody a whole life story in an uncomplicated way. My most recent work begins to explore ‘dwelling places’, a place where we can truly be content and again the setting that truly represents our character and history. Each material used is carefully chosen to create layers of texture incorporating textiles, paper, paint, hand painted imagery and meticulously detailed hand embroidery. The combinations of varying media help me to create many layers and textures, which are evocative of the memories and history that is integral to my work.
Graduating from Edinburgh College of Art in Performance Costume in 2005, I have since been working on my own creations as well as teaching workshops with community groups. More recently, I have been coordinating a project involving reminiscence work with older people. This has been a huge source of inspiration to my latest artwork and themes of memories, dreams and childhood.
A whispered Journey 