29/08/2026
An Invitation To Play
Artist Statement
My work explores the tension between joy and discomfort through selective colour portraits of clowns playing on playground equipment. It contrasts innocence with unease, using a clown as a symbol for marginalised people who often feel out of place in public spaces, people of colour, women, q***r people, and disabled people. The gradient to colour symbolises how the world can brighten once you're included in community. My friend Pek, featured in this work, inspired me to have this project in a playground after they invited me into a moment of play. I quickly realised play can be a way to reclaim space, soften discomfort, to connect and to feel seen. This project celebrates play as a universal act of joy, resistance, belonging and community.
By El Rose
Rose Bloom Lens
Models featured: Tiger Christensen Tara Stewart
pek • උපෙකා
Displayed: Newcastle Art School, Gallery Space
