Tailor-made
Artist: Charlotte Steel
How do we show what’s on the inside? Tailor-made is a debut exhibition that attempts to answer this question through the lens of self-expression through body modification. Multi-media artist Charlotte Steel explores the correlation between individuality and the use of the body as a canvas for customisation.
The body is the cornerstone of how we comprehend and interact with the world. It is our bridge between the internal and external worlds we inhabit. For some, body modifications such as tattoos, piercings, and hair dye act as markers of change, of a fresh start, or of marking significant milestones. They symbolise new phases of empowerment, of letting go, of agency over the self. In this way, body modifications are more than just physical but take on a deeper meaning. They become coping mechanisms, a way to deal with emotional pain; a way to impose a sense of control on the world.
The expression ‘tailor-made’ describes something that has been made, adapted, designed, or created to fit a particular person. Drawing upon the phrase, the artist highlights the nature of her medium: upcycled denim fabric. Steel likens embroidery on denim to tattoos on skin, both done in intricate designs with a steady hand and detailed eye. Displayed collectively like a patchwork sleeve, her paintings emphasise personalisation as the revelation of identity.
Charlotte Steel is a multi-media artist interested in exploring identity. Her work centres on the body and how physical modifications can convey self-expression. Despite working within the figurative tradition, her current style of using diamantés and embroidery imbues her work with a contemporary twist. She is a first-year student at the Manukau Institute of Technology.
Tailor-made is her first solo exhibition.
About The Wall
The Wall is dedicated to supporting East Auckland artists working towards secondary or tertiary study. This exhibition space allows emerging artists to experience the process of exhibition making without the pressure that comes with the scale of a traditional gallery space. Situated amongst the hustle and bustle of the UXBRIDGE concourse, this gallery space allows young artists more exposure than its counterpart. Artist will have the opportunity to engage with the community and gain experience talking about their practice through optional Artist Talks and other public programming. After their exhibition, emerging artists will have a clearer understanding of the unseen aspects of exhibition-making. At the same time, members of the public will gain awareness of local creatives in their community.