Gilets Jaunes Artwork

Textile and photography have been intertwined through history to record, share a narrative. They have been used to convey a message of human existence, strive and advancement through medicines, technology etc. This work has been inspired by the past and present day for change, taking roots from the historical artefact of the Bayeux Tapestry 1066. Where the process of needle work depicted the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, led by William, Duke of Normandy challenging Harold II, King Of England, and culminating in the Battle of Hastings. I have used the process of need work, fabric and use of text to convey a contemporary portrayal of historical events happening today. The action of protest. The figure in the image is a demonstrator clashing with riot police during a protest of Yellow Vests (Gilets jaunes) against rising oil prices and living costs on the Champs Elysees in Paris. “the poor in France are in distress: they cannot afford treatment, quality food and pay electricity bills." Gilets Jaunes Protester 2023