Interview with Artist Emma Kidd (Benconservato) about her 'World of Beasts' Exhibition

Join us for the official exhibition opening

Saturday 2pm, 14th March 2015

We had a chat with Emma about her up coming show at Sweets Workshop, which will run from 11th March until 14th April. Discover a world of strange and peculiar creatures created by Emma Kidd, full of imaginary places and animals that aren’t quite what they seem.
 

Tell us a bit about your show, what can we expect to find in a world of beasts?

My show is a new collection of articulated creatures, some that interact with each other. All are unique and are ready to make your mind wander. 

Where do you get the inspiration for your beastly characters?
Inspiration comes from... real life animals I think. And a healthy dose of Henson movies and shows as a child, and perhaps some more questionable psychedelia, such as "Tommy".

Who’s art/illustration work are you admiring and enjoying?
Work I admire at the moment, I'm not sure actually. I like to see all types of creatives at work. I like the drive to work more impressive at the moment. The walls that people hurdle to be able to do the things they love.
 
What materials do you use, do you have a process that you particularly enjoy when you are creating your characters?
I do love watercolour paper, that is around 300gsm. I like ink and gouache. They have become my favourite materials. 

Has having a little human beast at home inspired your work and changed the way you create?
The small beastie in my house definitely changed my way of working. He made me value time tremendously. He has made me realise I am very much a mortal being and time is something to be valued. It is amazing to see him grow and learn. So yes, he probably inspires me.
 
Your show at Sweets Workshop has been featured in The Sydney Morning Herald Spectrum Now in partnership with ANZ, can you tell us a bit about Spectrum Now?
Spectrum Now is a Sydney-wide Festival from March 11 - 29 with all types of exciting events, exhibitions, and one off happenings. Should be good. Excited to be a part of it.

On Sunday 29th March you will be hosting a ‘Create Your Own Beast’ workshop at Sweets Workshop, what will be be creating?
During my workshops, I either, encourage people create their own animal, person or creature or I provide a variety of templates or already cut out animals, such as horses or giraffes. From there, the sky is the limit. I like people to explore their inner creative, without being too frightened to do so. 



WORKSHOP: Make Your Own Hinged Beast
Emma Kidd (Benconservato) will host a workshop on creating your very own hinged beast. Cut, paint, colour and hinge your own creation to take home. Great fun for children and adults.
Date: 10am, Sunday 29th March.
Cost: The workshop costs $15 and includes all materials.
Time: The length of the class is approx 1-2hrs.
Bookings: Limited positions available, bookings required, contact Sweets Workshop on info@sweetsworkshop.com
Where: Sweets Workshop, Shop 4, 58-60 Carlton Crescent, Summer Hill 2130. (Just opposite Summer Hill train station)