Alison Claire France (nee Hillier, previously Swannack) is a visual artist who was born in Australia to British parents and has developed a deep connection with nature through her diverse upbringing in Australia, the United Kingdom and South Africa. Her artistic journey has been influenced by her fascination with images and diverse perspectives, leading her to focus on figurative, landscapes and seascapes paintings.
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Alison creates stunning large-scale emulsion paintings and sculptures in the serene landscapes of East Sussex, England. Her freestyle painting techniques invite viewers to explore the intricacies of human forms and landscapes, celebrating the balance between spontaneity and finesse. Alison aims to foster inclusivity and acceptance in the art world by merging viewers' perspectives with her own artistic vision.
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Through her abstract representations using paint and sculpture, Alison delves into pareidolia, a psychological phenomenon that explores how experiences shape perception. She constantly takes risks in her techniques and finds inspiration in every moment, considering life as a profound phenomenon. As a Deaf artist, Alison's journey is one of visual exploration, seeking to reflect diverse perceptions and enrich her works with empathetic engagement. Her unique experiences from growing up in different countries drive her to break barriers and champion equality across intersectionality.
Education
Sept 2023- July 2024
MA In Fine Art, University of Brighton
Sept 2020- July 2023
BA (Hons) In Fine Art, University Centre, Hastings - validated by the University of Brighton
Jan 2005 - July 2007
BA In Art History, University of Queensland, Australia
(incomplete in final year due to family circumstances)
Jan 2003 - Dec 2004
Diploma in Visual Arts, TAFE Queensland, Australia
Exhibitions
Solo
Group
2024 Work in Progress, Edward Street Gallery, University of Brighton
2024 Interim, Atrium Gallery Grand Parade, University of Brighton
2023 Unfold, Edward Street Gallery, University of Brighton
2023 D'Art Gallery, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa
2023 Inter-Diaspora Art Exhibition, Duke Lanes, Brighton
2023 Arts Auction - Deaf Kidz International Gala Dinner, Brighton
2023 Degree Show 23 - University Centre, Hastings
2023 New Order New Chaos, Observer Building, Hastings
2023 Coast Curation, the Stade Hall, Hastings
2022 Fine Art Year 2, the 5th Floor Gallery, Hastings
2022 Curated Exhibition B-Side, the Stade Hall, Hastings
2022 JJANEC Collaborative Installations, Space, St. Leonards-on-Sea