Joao Simoes-Brown

Joao Simoes-Brown’s current artwork explores change, in-betweenness and the anthropological concept of liminality. The liminal space or threshold is a step into unknown territory, a midpoint at the core of transformation. Joao’s artwork is informed by her own experience of in-betweenness: identity is not necessarily homogeneous or set in stone, hers thrives on fluidity and redefinition across cultures. Landscape and the built environment populate her figurative compositions as witnesses to histories, cultures and human presence on the planet, they accumulate layers and overlaps of narratives, memories and identities, both real and fictional. The textures brought into the canvas enhance this  aspect. In recent paintings she has added to her canvases her own handmade paper  created with newspapers. In the papermaking process she explores a method for questioning dominant narratives and suggesting alternatives. Joao draws inspiration from disparate sources ranging from literature to photographs or snapshots taken during walks. Drawing and writing are staples of her practice. Sometimes words make their way into the work.