HOLD-RELEASE (2024) Katriona Beales

Beales' latest work 'HOLD-RELEASE' develops her on-going research into post-digital culture and mental health. Beales created a series of small hand-held sculptures reflecting on different strategies to manage anxiety, including breath-work and repetitive movements. Elements of the sculptures were made by squeezing hold of, and then releasing, different types of clay. This clenching and unclenching of the hands, is echoed through the body in the jaw, neck and in our breathing, all sites where we tend to hold stress and anxiety. The sculptures reference the language of sensory toys like pop-its and fidget spinners, as well as devotional objects such as worry beads and rosaries. These meditation tools and sensory toys share a common concern, in helping the body and mind reset. The sculptures were then 3D scanned and worked on in 3D modelling software to produce the final images. The work draws on experiences leading Autograph's Family SEND programme and conversations with families such as Lisha and Lumen; centring the importance of sensory spaces of connection, of holding and being held.  

HOLD-RELEASE (2024) by Katriona Beales at Old Street Digital Canvas, Gable wall of 121 City Road, facing Old Street Roundabout. 18th-31st July 2024.