‘Nature’s Serenade’ by Gina Barnes

My work focuses on animals, employing unusual imagery to challenge and reshape our perceptions of them, and to highlight our complex relationship with them and the natural world. I aim to create these strange visuals through symbolism, and unusual assemblages. Initially, my art centered on animals because of my deep fascination with them and my desire to foster empathy. Recently, however, I’ve begun to question the true purpose and impact of depicting animals in art.

When I encounter something unusual or strange, it often feels unfamiliar, unusual, or unconventional. Strangeness can be associated with terms like ‘weird’ or ‘surreal’. Strangeness and surrealism in art can illuminate the everyday oddities we encounter, prompting us to reconsider what we deem normal or abnormal. By incorporating strangeness into my work, I aim to engage viewers in rethinking our perceptions of animals and our relationship with them.