this is how it feels...

There are 3 things that without fail I will cry out as it gets closer and closer to Spring Fling , the Artist's Open Studio Event in SW Scotland this weekend: "I'm not going to have enough work finished in time!" "What if nobody comes?" "What if people think my work is rubbish/a joke/not worth looking at?" This will be my 3rd year and so far, in reality, it's been a grand experience. And so far, none of the above has arisen (at least no one has been harshly critical to my face). Most of my work is made in isolation, so it's always good to meet people who are interested in seeing what I do, and gauging reactions. If you're in the area this weekend, do take the time to pop in and introduce yourself. "Curve" - a sculpture in plaster, scrim and acrylic - click on the image for a larger version

While my husband, Kim, has been blogging for nearly 5 years, for me it's an entirely new experience. So as a way to introduce me to the people who frequent his blog, he suggested I do a guest post on his site. Because one of the things about his writing style that has always struck me is his openness, I decided to write about the deeply personal approach I have to my art. Do pop over and visit: http://kimayres.blogspot.com/2010/05/maggie-ayres-its-personal.html and feel free to comment or feedback to me your thoughts

The idea of "Acceptable Flesh" has been fermenting in my mind for quite a time. I announce it here as if it were some bold new venture, on which I have just alighted. In truth it is, of course, a simultaneous thread that has edged and woven through all my work to date – social constraints for both mind and body are inextricably linked. In 2007, I made an artwork called “Bound”, which was inspired by a piece of writing by my husband, Kim. In many ways it encapsulates the direction of “Acceptable Flesh” Click here to see the original story Plans for this body of work seem to grow daily, and with excited anticipation, I envisage a large quantity of textured pieces on canvas, and free hanging installations. Sculpture dominates largely too, with forms based on the body and corsets. I have some interesting ideas for black and white photography, which at the moment leave me amazed and hugely daunted at their concept. Over the ensuing months I will be collecting audio int...

Acceptable Flesh Society has always used the shaping of the body to create an ideal the majority struggle to attain. In today’s market such messages are insidious and never subtle. We can only ever fail to measure up to the surgically enhanced, and the digitally altered images, streamed to us, demanding an impossible conformity. “Acceptable Flesh” is a planned new body of work where I will set out to explore the conflict between this impossible societal norm, and the need for authentic self-acceptance. Using a variety of media, from paint, textiles and canvas, through to sculpture, photography and sound, I will be examining experiences of inhabiting bodies deemed less than acceptable. To follow the progress of “Acceptable Flesh”, and even have your say - comments and contributions are very welcome - please join in and/or sign up for the newsletter at: http://www.maggieayres.co.uk/