Rachael Edwards
www.cargocollective.com/rachaeledwards
Visual Artist based in Melbourne.
Artist Statement:
I create bold, surreal and nostalgic compositions which combine colour, pattern and texture. The found imagery used and the artistic processes I employ aim to provide a commentary on modern consumer culture The resulting aesthetic marries my interest in low brow and pop culture 'genres' such as science fiction, psychedelia and outsider art with a contemporary, design like approach.
Short interview
​
What is the narrative behind your work? In other words, what inspires you?
My work explores (wo)mans relationship to science and technology, mysticism and the natural environment. I am inspired by the work of other women, by nature, astrology, fiction, film, biological illustrations, fashion, decorative art and ornamentation. I like to collect and assimilate both imagery and information in order to help me make sense of the world and ultimately construct my own personal narrative.
​
​
What is the feminine for you and how does it impact your work?
The feminine for me is our connection to the earth, it is strength and also empathy. I am particularly interested in the idea of the divine feminine and about it's systematic patriarchal repression through the ages, particularly in western culture.I want to understand how this affects contemporary culture and what we can do to actively re-learn ancient wisdom, magick and ritual that has been hidden from us. This impacts my work visually with regard to subject matter and composition and also through the techniques and medium I choose to use.
​
Can you tell us about some of the challenges you face as a female artist / non-binary femme artist?
I read somewhere that around 80% of art graduates worldwide are female whilst approximately 95% of art held in collections around the world is made by men. I have a BA in Embroidery and my work has developed through explorations of craft techniques and textile art, all of which has historically been deemed feminine and therefore inferior in a male dominated art world. Exploring 'feminine' issues within your work can often be deemed less valuable and less intellectual by society. Being an artist has its challenges and being female is only one of them, as much as it is challenging is it also a gift.
In a few words, can you share with us what have been some of the key elements to develop your artistic career?
Slowly learning to share my work online as well as with peers has been instrumental in my development. Moving to Melbourne from the UK has helped me to re-imagine my artistic process post university and has allowed me to meet many other talented and encouraging artists.