Amongst the severe floods last winter in the UK, Somerset was one of the most severely hit areas. I volunteered for several weeks building flood defences in locations based around Bridgewater and have reflected upon my experience in these works. The instantaneous nature of mono-printing allowed me to work loosely and echo my experience through the fast paced nature of the water and its muddy aesthetic. Using visual journalism and reportage drawing I was able to capture the frantic efforts of the environmental agency and volunteers battling the increasing water levels. By interacting first hand with my subject matter, I feel I was able to give a more honest depiction of the scenes I witnessed. I initially wanted to capture the severity of the disaster. However, through this process I came to realise the positives of a particular strong community in Burrow Bridge that collectively helped each other rebuild their lives and homes. This became the area that I chose to hone the focus of the artwork.
