Christina Brouwer
art ist Statement
MA Fine Art: Arts University Bournemouth
I am currently based in South West London, with regular visits to Bournemouth and Southampton.
I am a socially engaged fine artist, primarily working with everyday materials to create immersive and tactile installations for the viewer. My background is in ceramic sculpture, however I have now progressed to using everyday materials to sculpt through deliberate reflection and appreciation of this medium.
My practice works to quietly address themes of trauma surrounding domestic and sexual abuse by creating pieces that invite a sense of safety and tranquillity. Using the deep sea as my own place of healing, I aim to translate this through layered, soft textures and organic forms.
My works are often tactile installations with the goal of engaging several senses, not only to invoke a sense of play balanced with heavy subjects, but to allow for accessibility. As a neurodivergent artist, allowing my art to be touched and viewed allows everyone to be included in the presentation.
My process is often initiated through national VAWG news and research vessel videos in the deep sea. The process of making is a very conscious tactile experience for me, texture and gestural movements dictate how I make.
Safe Space video projected onto My Safe Space installation: Art from the Basement, Bournemouth
Cavo Greco, Cyprus - Freediving beginnings
Safe Space New collaborative project
I have been busy developing a new project: Safe Space with the aim of providing targeted art workshops to vulnerable people and those who have experienced trauma. The aim of the project is to empower participants to create their own real life safe space through creative collaboration, 3D installation and art exploration.
I am currently collaborating with young creatives from Kingston Young Carers’ Project, a registered charity based in Kingston. For more information about the project please follow the link here.
My Background
My background in support work in various settings has shaped a large part of my creative practice in social engagement.
I completed my BA (Hons) in Childhood, Youth and Community studies at Winchester University, which led me into support work.
I’ve had the opportunity to work in support work for over ten years in various roles and settings, including mainstream and specialist autistic schools as well as a Young Carers charity. Giving me insight into supporting vulnerable children and young people who have high emotional and mental health needs.
Having spent over a decade in this line of work, it was time to finally focus on my art practice. I completed the Access to Art and Design course at Kingston College and subsequently completed my MA Fine Art degree at Arts University Bournemouth.
