On all cylinders 2022, Chelsea MAFA graduate show. This work is as it sounds, presented on 6 recycled cardboard cylinders and derived from the phrase firing on all cylinders. Using photography, sculpture, sound and light I deliberately create an assertive yet misty installation that plays into the duality of the feminine on every level.

The installation is a space of potentiality where unexpected and powerful collaborations form. An anchor of my works inspiration is feet and dancing. My grandmothers feet and her roller-skates floating in the air combine with the feet of two rural Irish girls set dancing (in the town of my ancestors) to help me straddle ideas of my own history, fate, empowerment and womanhood.

Grounded by a sound work that echos consistently through the space, it is easy to assume the beat is a drum when in reality it’s the feet of rural girls dancing on timber. Materials like cotton twill and cute pink roller skating wheels are gracefully intercepting their former purpose as stereotyped objects and have an important role in the truth telling of this work. The black and white cotton material prints are installed like flags at the entry to an official building. When installing the work I imagined an alternate reality that challenges the underrepresentation of girls and women in positions of power.