Details

First Name

Bethany

Last Name

Reid

Username

bethanyreid

Region

Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire

Disciplines

Applied Arts and Craft, Drawing, Film, Installation, Moving Image, Sculpture, Sound

Themes

Environment, Landscape, Site-specific, Political, Narratives

Statement

Statement

My work is driven by a deep interest in animal welfare, offering a reflective examination of contemporary human-animal dynamics. Through a cyclical process of research and creation, I scrutinise societal narratives surrounding these interactions. Beginning with 2D sketches, my sculptures gradually take shape as animal forms crafted from recycled and textile materials.

 

I strive to ignite curiosity and compel viewers to reflect on their ethical positions regarding non-human animals. My aim is to evoke empathy and awareness about our relationships with animals, fostering a deeper connection and a sense of responsibility towards them.

My previous work has been influenced by the disparity in knowledge about meat production between children and adults. I use my platform as an artist to promote education and awareness, inviting audiences to engage with my research and explore curated resources. Through this engagement, I hope to inspire a more informed and compassionate perspective on animal welfare.

Biography

Biography

Bethany Reid (b. 2002) is an Aberdeen-based artist who graduated from Gray’s School of Art in June 2024 with a 1st class honours degree in Contemporary Art Practice (Sculpture).

Bethany’s work intricately explores and employs recycled and textile materials to create sculptural representations of non-human animal forms. Her artistic practice delves into the human-animal relationship, challenging contemporary societal perceptions and interactions.

In addition to her degree show at Gray’s School of Art, Bethany has showcased her work at the ‘Look Again’ Project Space in Aberdeen and the newly established ‘Studio 105’ exhibition space, supported by OuterSpaces.

Bethany’s degree show was met with acclaim, earning her the Gray’s School of Art ‘Socially and Environmentally Engaged Creative Award’. She was also honored with the SSA New Graduate Award for 2024 and selected for the prestigious Royal Scottish Academy New Contemporaries 2024 Exhibition.