Belgium, Antwerp, Royal Academy of Fine Arts, 2017

Animal testing happens daily within the cosmetics industry.

The rabbit, synonymous with animal testing as well a symbol of cruelty-free products, is the subject of my work.

I have researched different ‘tufting’ techniques, adapting them to create a more meaningful and a sensation slightly unexpected to the touch. Instead of tufting with traditional materials like wool, my brooches are made with thin metal wire. The cold, hard qualities of metal are hidden by the visually soft, fur-like appearance, deceiving the spectator. The bright, humorous and colourful fur pieces are based on my drawings which lay bare the reality of animal testing – red, swollen eyes, ulceration, even blindness, skin cracking and bleeding.