Heather’s installation, showcased during the summer project All you can Art 2024 at the Kunsthal, Rotterdam, stemmed from her deep inquiry into society’s inclination towards productivity over creativity. She discovered that cultural and economic influences heavily shape this imbalance, affecting physical and mental wellbeing.

Her response to this imbalance took shape in a symbolic “cage,” an interactive installation urging visitors to share their concepts of freedom using provided tools. Through tangible representation, Heather aimed to ignite dialogues on societal norms’ constraints and the potential for liberation through creative expression, transforming the “cage” into a sanctuary for envisioning a more inclusive world.

Materials: cardboard, tape, cable ties, white paint.

Purposefully equipped with minimal tools—scissors, a Sharpie, and tape—the “cage” aimed to alleviate creative overwhelm and prompt focused engagement. Stepping into this confined space challenged visitors to defy societal norms, inviting reflection on potential judgment. Whilst evoking feelings of constraint, making it easier for participants to confront their personal limitations.

The gallery’s commentary, such as “It looks like a chandelier,” underscored society’s pervasive conditioning, prompting reflection on true freedom in expression. Many visitors, influenced by societal pressures, hesitated to engage, further illuminating these constraints.

Participants often “settled for a smaller drawing,” reflecting ingrained adherence to societal pressures. This phenomenon prompted Heather’s ongoing exploration into the circumstances enabling genuine expression, regardless of imposed rules.

By urging visitors to confront hesitations and step beyond comfort zones, Heather’s installation sparked critical examination of societal norms’ influence. It served as a catalyst for redefining freedom in thought and expression, emphasising environments fostering authenticity and diversity of expression.

Heather’s current works extend this exploration, delving deeper into these themes and inquiries.