Part fashion collection, part conceptual art concept, these emotionally charged fashion artefacts by Una Burke are based on the universal subject of human trauma - and manage to be both disturbing and spellbinding at the same time.
Carcass-like in form, each piece from the 'Re.treat' series is hand-crafted from vegetable tanned leather, resulting in a colour indicative of human flesh. The pieces are produced to be viewed as contemplation artefacts observed in the environment of the gallery or, perhaps, as a structured fashion accessory for the brave...
Una Burke has tackled something that most can relate to on one level or another, either though personal experience or by association. Victims of traumatic encounters often create subconscious emotional barriers as a means of protection against the re-occurrence of pain. These barriers have the potential to become a trapping device, resulting in an inability to function in certain situations, and Burke has translated the feelings and emotions associated with this topic into a visual language of physical gestures.
With the body then removed from these leather structures, the shape of the contorted human form is retained and a moment or feeling remains apparent. A number of pieces are also reminiscent of medical braces used to heal broken bones and spinal injuries; signifying the potential for healing.
Understandably, Burke has attracted a fair chunk of attention for this daring and beautiful collection. We can't wait to see where she goes from here.
One to watch...
