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(1131) Sara Gilbert - Into Battle

200

About this artwork

I started to think about how flags came about in history. As well as providing a sense of belonging to tribes and native peoples it seemed to me that flags were historically used to claim territory and fight battles. Originally heraldic images were used to identify a particular person and these images were usually depicted as powerful symbols of animals or birds. During my research into my own family history I have found many relatives who have fought for ‘King and country’ believing they must do their duty, many were slain never to return home.

I have base the androgynous character with the long red hair on Queen Boudicca, who predates the use of flags in Britain, but portrays a powerful symbol of war. He/she wears the red cross of saint George who was reputed to slay a dragon. The colour red symbolises the blood that has been spilt in battle and is very prominent on the British flag. Behind the horse-rider are men fighting at Gallipoli in the first world war, depicting another slaughter of human life in the name of victory and ownership of land. The final piece is a mythological montage and is my response to “some old time British flags”.

About Sara

As a an experienced printmaker and painter I use varied methods and materials to convey a sense of history. Evocative layers, creating meaning from my family’s industrial heartlands in the north of England. My work is based on my family history, connections to the past and objects that resonate feelings and emotions of the people who owned them. It is the human story that is interesting to me, often the everyday, overlooked things we take for granted. The human relationships and fortitude which was at the very heart of my ancestors’ survival. The highs and lows of human activity and how the inevitable cycle of birth and death comes to us all.

For more than 20 years Sara has exhibited across South West England and has curated several group and solo shows. Her work is also held in several private collections. She shares a regular platform with the Devon Artist Network (DAN) and South Hams Arts Forum (SHAF), works collaboratively with the Totnes Contemporary Markmakers and has exhibited with the Dartington Printmakers.

Link to Sara’s Art Aviso profile HERE

Sara was provided with the following page from Newnes’ Pictorial Knowledge Encyclopedia:

Volume 9
On things that interest you and me.
Some Old time British Flags.

Artist:
Sara Gilbert
Medium:
Handprinted drypoint and gum arabic prints, hand coloured with ink on watercolour paper.
Dimensions:
A4
Price:
200 EUR