Camille Shedda: Manchester, Jamaica, Lives and Works in Kingston, Jamaica
Artist Statement:
All the works are from 2014-2015.
These works began with my daily use and collection of plastic bags, otherwise known as “scandal bags” in Jamaica, my country of origin. Typically, “scandal bags,” are black and opaque, thereby being able to conceal their contents from public view. Although they are predominantly used for carrying groceries, “scandal bags” have been used to conceal weapons, drugs, stolen goods and even body parts.
In my work, the bag functions in varied ways depending on the type of bag used, where it is placed and how it has been manipulated. The portrait subject, whether it has been painted or drawn on the bag, often functions as an object or commodity, which inevitably expires with time and display.
Overall, the works call upon themes of identity, class, race, disposability, memory and temporality.