My project focused on my mental health impacted my memory last year. I noticed that the sicker I became, the more difficult it was to remember and to complete everyday tasks such as reading and writing. I explored the theme of memory by reflecting on this time using my 2018 diary as my main source of content. 

I wrote on a variety of different surfaces such as mirror, glass, plastic, and foam. Each had their own importance. For example, using mirror linked to self-reflection and glass linked to clarity of mind which conflicts against my mental state at the time. I was inspired by the work of Isabel Yellin which lead to using foam in my work. It also relates to the lack of comfort I felt in 2018. 

To extend my work, I think using performance could prove very affective. After taking part in the Body as Material workshop I feel my confidence has improved and that I feel more comfortable not only in performing, but also in creating/planning a performance. 

When presenting my work at the exhibition, I placed a mirror across from the viewer below the video projection. I think developing the idea of reflecting the viewer and becoming part of the installation could make it feel more personal. I would also love to work more with bleach mixed with paint. As its affect was an accident and I felt restrained by time, I think I didn’t use it to my greatest ability – but it could and SHOULD be experimented with further. 

The artists I studied have impacted my work enormously. It began with the work of Francesca Woodman and watching her performance which used a clouded plastic sheet which she wrote on and then ripped her way through. I was also inspired by her use of mirrors. 

I was further influenced by the work of Tracey Emin through colour, scale, and subject matter. I have always had an appreciation for Emin’s work and decided to look more into her texts relating to past lovers and experiences as this matched my diary content. 

Looking at the work of Isabel Yellin also influenced me through her use of materials. I was drawn to the plush cushion material she often uses. Her work also inspired how I presented my work in the Body as Material exhibition. 

Time was a slight problem for me during this project. I was worried at the beginning when I didn’t have a set idea on what my project was going to focus on, but found that getting straight to creating work helped me as I felt a natural connection to the subject I chose. As soon as I had decided on this, I was able to start creating work faster. I also think time restraints meant I was not able to experiment with materials to the extent that I would have liked. 

I think one of my biggest downfalls in this project was that my development work was mostly 2D. If I were to approach this project again, developing more of my work in 3D form would make it easier to ensure my outcome fits the brief.