Jess Benham-Brookfield

Most women experience some form of physical, sexual or mental abuse in their lifetime. Many people, especially in the Western world, are naïve to the fact that this is something that could happen to them or a loved one. My work aims to dispel the myth that this only happens in isolated cultures and to educate viewers on this subject by juxtaposing stories of abuse through colourful, childlike illustrations that leave the viewer to fill in the information for themselves. Inspired by the fairy tales of Hans Christian Andersen, my practice uses colour, mixed media and storytelling to raise awareness of this harrowing issue that can affect any person in any country or of any culture. Through my final project I have developed my illustration and digital skills, and in the future I want to continue with this and work professionally in illustration.