Vivian Ross-Smith: Smothered

Smothered considers the texture of bodily breakdown, of skin and systems failing, and explores the mentally suffocating impact of long-term periods of ill health. With a focus on materiality, and the use of self-care essentials such as the weighted blanket, snippets of medical memories are explored through painting and textiles.

Based in Shetland, Ross-Smith is influenced by her perspective as an island artist, and the communal acts of making that are part of island life. Referencing textile practices such as knitting, weaving and quilting, where resourcefulness is key, Smothered links these traditionally female practices with the self advocacy and drive needed to push through the frustratingly repetitive nature of mending ongoing bodily issues.

The pieces in this exhibition have been created through rhythmical, bodily processes, resulting in visceral outcomes that are to be felt and experienced. Ross-Smith’s wider practice explores themes of place, community, care, comfort, accessibility, and communication, through painting, textiles and performance.

In tandem with her art practice, Ross-Smith was a social care worker for over 10 years, working with adults with disabilities and life-long conditions. This has played a vital role in her interest in ensuring that both art and healthcare are accessible to all. Ross-Smith gained her BA (Hons) from Gray’s School of Art in Aberdeen (2013) and Masters in Fine Art Practice with Distinction from Glasgow School of Art (2020) and is currently a recipient of the Freelands Foundation Studio Fellowship.

Launching at Lyth Arts Centre as part of the  Women’s Wellness Festival 2023 on Sunday 19th March 2023 and running until Sunday 25th June 2023. The exhibition will be available to view in the LAC Foyer during event opening times only.