Maddi Nicholson

Concepts My work is diverse in concept and theme, generally referring to the transient nature of life; youth and adolescence ('Bunny' and 'The First'). Sexuality, gender, genetics and power are strong themes in 'Going Lamb', 'Shall I Draw You a Bath', 'Roll Over' and the Lorries. Vernacular images, childhood toys and everyday objects are inflated sometimes literally to the scale of icons and then used as symbols of this investigation. Humour, word play, finding the extraordinary within the ordinary, references to popular culture and autobiographical detail are all important parts of the work.Influences My main sources of inspiration are my childhood toys, plastic, knitted and sewn ephemera, the throw-away items of life, and play. The more kitsch and bizarre the better e.g. from inflated plastic food to blow up dolls. I'm influenced by snippets of conversation heard in the street, from TV and in advertising. Artists whose work I find of interest include Julian Opie, Jean Micheal Basquiat, David Shrigley, Geoff Koons, Michael Craig Martin, Yinka Shonibare, Gillian Wearing, Pierrick Sorin and Sam Taylor Wood.Career path I studied for a BA (hons) in textiles and embroidery in 1985. I have worked full-time as an artist since university, I make my living through commissions of my work, public art projects and residences. I advise as a creative consultant with industry business and the public sector on all manner of art education and design related issues. I have set up and am director of Art Gene LTD, Gallery and Arts Production facilities, where I have my studio in Barrow-in -Furness.