I decided to reflect on my own childhood experiences for inspiration for my Final Major Project. As a child I was exposed to a wide variety of different faiths and lifestyles through new age camps I attended and I was always captivated by the colours, sights and sounds I encountered. I was inspired to explore installation through spending time in structures such as yurts, teepees and circus style big tops. It always felt like I was stepping into another world for a couple of weeks escaping from real world problems and technology. 

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In the spirit of escapism through ritualistic practice, I have taken inspiration from traditional religious practices along with traditional religious dress. In particular, I have been influenced by robes which are common in both eastern and western spirituality along with the traditional shamanic use of natural materials and real bones. However, the shamanic costume I have made is also reminiscent of the colours of my childhood aswell as costumes worn by the Kibbo Kift.

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Although I wanted to explore instillation through the structures I observed I still wanted my work to be reminiscent of any other child’s den. One afternoon I built a den in the studios using things a child may use from their own home. The den became a hub of activity and a commonly used social area for people to relax in. Community is something that modern society severely lacks, no where in the western world embraces the idea of relying on each other anymore. Therefore, I have created a space to do so.