Hello, I’m Alison Claire France (née Hillier, previously Swannack), a freelance artist and facilitator based in East Sussex, England. My artistic journey has been deeply influenced by my diverse background and experiences.
Early Life and Creative Awakening
I was born in Australia, where my parents moved after their wedding in London, taking advantage of the 1964 £10 passage scheme to start anew. We returned to the UK when I was three years old before moving to South Africa, where I lived for many years. This multicultural experience created a profound connection to the people and their culture, which now enriches my art.
Returning to Roots
Approximately ten years ago, I returned to England to reconnect with my ancestral roots and settle in a landscape that has always felt like home. Growing up in a family of artists, including two aunts and several cousins, instilled in me a lifelong appreciation for art and nature.
Living with Deafness
As a profoundly Deaf individual who communicates using sign language, I identify as culturally Deaf. My Deafness shapes my identity and enriches my connection to the Deaf community. I also come from a family with mental health conditions, which has fostered my understanding of empathy and the complexity of the human experience.
Artistic Education and Growth
Art has always inspired me. While I missed the chance to study art formally in school, I explored creativity through doodling on my notebooks. I eventually pursued formal training, earning my BA (Hons) in Fine Art from University Centre Hastings in 2023 and my MA in Fine Art at the University of Brighton in 2024. Additionally, I studied Art History at the University of Queensland and completed a Diploma in Visual Arts at TAFE Queensland.
Artistic Style and Themes
My artistic style is immersive and conceptual, focusing on installations, sculpture, painting, prints, and video. I delve into themes of perception, emotion, and the interconnectedness of humans and nature. I am particularly fascinated by pareidolia, the phenomenon where familiar shapes emerge from chaos, inviting viewers to interpret their experiences.
Challenges and Resilience
Dealing with communication barriers and accessibility challenges as a Deaf artist can be tough, especially within the predominantly hearing art community. However, these obstacles have fostered resilience and creativity, encouraging me to find alternative ways to connect and communicate through visual media.
Future Aspirations
My ambition is to create art that resonates with viewers and sparks reflection on identity, nature, and social issues. I aim to raise awareness of the human impact on the environment and explore themes of dystopian decay and glimmers of hope in my work. After a brief pause for health reasons, I am actively seeking funding and a larger studio to expand my artistic endeavors.
Advice for Aspiring Artists
To budding artists, I advise starting wherever you are, using whatever materials you have. Embrace exploration and self-expression over perfection, and draw inspiration from your lived experiences and identity. Don’t limit yourself to the Deaf community; reach out beyond and be open to collaborations with other artists. Your unique perspective is invaluable in enriching the art world.
By Alison Claire France
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Alison Claire France: A Journey as a Freelance Artist
Background and Journey
Alison Claire France, a talented freelance artist and facilitator based in East Sussex, England, has a rich background that informs her artistic vision. Originally from Australia, her family moved to the UK when she was three, and she later spent significant time in South Africa. This diverse upbringing cultivated a strong connection to various cultures and landscapes, which deeply influences her art today.
The Influence of Family and Health
Growing up in an artistic family, with several relatives also engaged in creative pursuits, shaped Alison’s appreciation for nature and unique perspectives. Additionally, mental health conditions within her family have offered her insights into resilience and empathy, qualities that resonate throughout her work.
Identity and Communication
As a profoundly Deaf individual, Alison communicates through sign language and identifies strongly with Deaf culture. This identity not only enriches her life but also adds a unique dimension to her artistic practice, embodying the principles of inclusion and accessibility.
Artistic Exploration and Education
Alison’s formal art education includes an MA in Fine Art from the University of Brighton and a BA (Hons) from University Centre Hastings. She also studied Art History at the University of Queensland. Her artistic journey began with self-exploration through doodling, which later evolved into a deeper commitment to her craft.
Artistic Style and Themes
Her style is immersive and conceptual, traversing diverse mediums such as installations, sculpture, paintings, and video. Alison’s work often tackles themes like perception, human emotion, and the intricate relationship between people and nature. She is particularly interested in pareidolia, where viewers see familiar shapes in abstract forms, prompting personal interpretation and reflection.
Challenges and Resilience in the Art World
Despite facing challenges such as communication barriers and a sometimes isolating environment, Alison’s resilience shines through in her ability to adapt and advocate for herself. Running a small business in the arts is demanding, and she emphasizes the importance of accessibility and connection in fostering a thriving creative community.
Future Aspirations and Collaborations
Looking ahead, Alison aims to expand her artistic reach by developing new works, fostering connections, and participating in projects that prioritize inclusivity. She is eager to collaborate with other artists who share her vision of making art accessible and meaningful for diverse audiences.
