'Seeing' the Army

Starting this project, I knew next to nothing about the army. So, attending a trip to the Kinloss Barracks and Fort George in the Highlands, I went with open eyes. During it, and whilst pondering after, I decided that what hit my attention most was the personality and mental health information given from the officers showing us around. This is what my research and artwork is based on. I also looked into preconceptions of the army and also of dogs in the army. The dog’s inclusion coming from pet dogs seen during the visit, owned by soldiers, and also my family’s retired police dog at home. I have an interest in the eye, and in seeing, so I have incorporated soldiers and dog's eyes in my paintings. Leading to a collection of four eyes, each with a personal reflection in them including a truthful concept.

Ultimately, I want to show that soldiers are people like everyone else and that they too struggle in life. I want to show that soldiers are not robots with weapons, and dogs aren’t aggressive killing machines. Denying those false truths shown on the TV or on our phones. So, through using the eye, it creates a mirror to the soul. Showing the true reality of the soldiers, and dog’s personalities, mental conditions, and experiences. Capturing the concept that an eye never lies. I hope for this work to open the viewers eyes to a more personal reality in the army. The symmetrical, diamond shape display on a plain wall is so the viewer is drawn to it, and the shape echoes the eyes included in the paintings. This to contribute to the title of ‘seeing the army.’

I have learnt through professional practice the importance of research and trying out new things. Coming from a non army background, research was essential in my completion of the brief. I’ve also realised how important interpretation is and understanding the effectiveness of a carefully curated and thought-out display. This completely adds to the end result.