Gadsden is an exciting and unique visual and perfromance artist with over 20 years experience of creating dynamic work as both solo artist, and collaborator as well as leading a range of national and international participative programmes. Gadsdens work is quite expressive and gestural in her approach to application of the medium, as the making of the work can be considered a performance to further elevate the composition. At the core of her practice are concerns as to how humankind comes to terms with mortality: by unearthing the unseen, making the invisible visible. Part of that process is about being vulnerable, about impairment, and working to empower others to find a voice with which to challenge stigma. Gadsden hopes to eradicate the democracy of the art industry and provide a safe, inclusive space for everyone, regardless of ability, disability, sexual orientation or ethnicity. Gadsden strives for diversity and representation to all.
Ultimately Gadsden’s work is underpinned by themes of fragility and resilience, a shared and positive sense of survival in the face of chronic health conditions, and the politics and mythologies surrounding disability; exploring how these themes are oxymoronic as a pair but harmonious in her working its delineation.Gadsden exhibits cross-cultural dialogues which consider the most profound notions of what it is to be human. I am particularly fond of Rachels work due to the application and the making of the composition. This year I am exploring ways to incorporate team work and participatory based events in order to allow everyone to be represented, I find Gadsdens approach to be beautiful in that essentially she is saying 'fuck off' to those who deliberately undermine others for their disability etc.
Art which makes a genuine impact to endeavour change in society, is the best kind of art and Gadsden does just that. I hope perhaps one day I can do that too.
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