Image Type: Single Image
Usage: As part of an exhibition about members of the Graeae Theatre Company.
Process: I met with Barbara and spent time talking to her about her life as a campaigner for the rights of people with disabilities. I made drawings and took photos of her then created the final artwork digitally.
Materials: Camera, pencil, Digital.
Formats: Digital
Brief Requirements: I was asked to create a portrait of Barbara Lisicki who has spent her life campaigning for the rights of disabled people through the use of direct action. The work needed to be more than a simple portrait. It had to disseminate what is required to be a 'direct action' campaigner and what specific skills/methods Barbara has employed over the years.
Key Brief Ideas: I started by spending an evening talking to Barbara. She's very funny and incredibly brave. I wanted the piece to include the nuances and mundane details that go into facing up to authority as a disabled person. I also wanted to capture the humour that underpinned many of Barbara's stories/ experiences. I used the visual language associated with instruction manuals as a way to bring Barbara's stories together. This style also reminds us of Airfix kits and meticulously planned/ manufactured military operations/ weaponry. These seemed to sit perfectly with what Barbara has undertaken. The style also lent itself to the inclusion of text which helped embellish the narrative and explore the themes in more depth.
Commissioned For: Graeae Theatre Company
Commissioner Company: Graeae Theatre Company
Agent: CIA - Central Illustration Agency
Agent Website: centralillustration.com
Barbara Lisicki - Direct Action ExpertBarbara Lisicki – Direct Action Expert Image