An inner world manifested from generational and personal trauma that encompasses multi-faceted narratives referencing Indian mythology and folklore intertwined with familial and personal stories that have a direct connection with Empire.

An alternate dimension reflecting truths behind the building of modern Britain and the minds within its society, from the British and Dutch East India trading companies’ brutal domination of India’s spice trade, to the modern fashion industry riddled with slavery. An active celebration of resilience and rebellion, unable to to be fully understood through the ‘white gaze’, with the intent being a bridge that opens avenues for discussion, understanding and connection. Through the use of symbolism, the honest use of materials, and imagination, there is a relatability in the work. Taking an instinctive approach to the making process, the work takes its own direction, perhaps greatening the possibility of human connection, broadening percestions of ‘Britishness’, a reclamation of identity and power.

Wrapping textiles and other material to create form, rising from the ground, I build and create life forms which are unapologetically fused together, from nothing, much like I have built and empowered my sense of self, imbalanced and fragile, yet appearing strong. Textiles and clothes have lived a life of their own, discarded, isolated, I tear them to shreds, ripping at the seams, giving them new life.

Shehzad Jaffer 2023

…creating multidimensional versions of self, a chamber of guardians from the past, present and future. Coloured viels depict the complexities of the human soul, intertwining and overlapping wounded material creating beautiful brightly coloured patterns. The encasing of the figures in a space is an attempt at confinement, energy ready to burst, an ever changing metamorphosis in a bottomless universe. Internalised feelings, resentment and fear, pride and ambition, combine, manifesting into superior entities, authoritative, intimidating, and unable to be controlled; demanding respect, without the need for action, the pieces are distantly removed from the nature of humanity, liberating me not only from myself, but from the shackles of a racist society.

Shehzad Jaffer 2023