The Weight of Things: A Charcoal Exploration of Consciousness , My work delves into the realm of still life, a genre often perceived as static and devoid of deeper meaning. Yet, within the seemingly mundane objects that populate my charcoal drawings, I seek to uncover the intricate tapestry of human experience. Through the careful selection and arrangement of these objects, I aim to explore the nuanced interplay of class consciousness, memory, ownership, and desire. In my own practice, I am drawn to the inherent symbolism of everyday objects. A letterbox, a table fan, an immersion water heater or even a study lamp can evoke a myriad of emotions and associations. These objects, often overlooked in our hurried existence, carry the weight of history and the imprint of human touch. By isolating them from their original context and placing them within a carefully composed still life, I invite the viewer to contemplate their significance. The choice of objects in a still life is a deliberate act of curation. It reflects the artist’s personal history, cultural background, and social class. The objects I select are often drawn from my own life experiences, imbued with personal memories and associations. By sharing these personal artefacts with the viewer, I hope to foster a sense of empathy and connection. The concept of ownership is central to my exploration of still life. Objects, whether acquired through purchase, inheritance, or gift, carry with them a sense of possession and identity. They can be symbols of status, power, and aspiration. Yet, as the philosopher Roland Barthes argued, objects are also sites of cultural and social meaning. They are imbued with a network of signs and symbols that shape our understanding of the world. In my charcoal drawings, I often play with the idea of absence and presence. By depicting objects in a state of decay or disrepair, I highlight the impermanence of material possessions. A type writer or an umbrella serves as a reminder of the passage of time and the inevitable decline of all things. This notion of transience is further underscored by the ephemeral nature of charcoal itself, a medium that is easily smudged and erased. Darkness, in my work, is not merely the absence of light but a powerful tool for emphasizing form, texture, and the interplay of light and shadow. It creates a sense of mystery and intrigue, inviting the viewer to delve deeper into the composition. By obscuring certain details and highlighting others, I can manipulate the viewer’s perception and create a sense of suspense. Moreover, darkness can evoke a range of emotions, from melancholy to awe. It can suggest the unknown, the subconscious, or the passage of time. The act of drawing, for me, is a process that allows me to connect with the objects before me on a deeper level. As I carefully render each detail, I am attuned to the texture, weight, and form of the objects. This tactile engagement fosters a sense of intimacy and understanding. My work seeks to elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary, inviting the viewer to see the world anew. Through the careful selection and arrangement of objects, I aim to provoke thought and reflection, encouraging the viewer to consider the deeper meaning behind the seemingly mundane.