'CAUTION'
Being explicit is a common theme in much of my work. I want my art to be understood. It’s the main reason I have written so extensively about each work.
The boot has often been used as a symbol of dominant power.
“Boot licker’ is a common derogatory term aimed at sycophants (especially those who defend capitalism). It’s no surprise that this symbolism has worked it’s way into the dominance and submission realm of BDSM. Orwell used the boot as a weapon wielded by the oppressive class in ‘1984’.
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I believe the working class should reclaim the work boot as one of many representative symbols. Oppressors may sometimes wear work boots but the working class use them.
'Caution' Faux leather on wooden board, 59cm x 67cm, 2025
I have a real ‘Roadworks ahead’ hazard warning sign. Thousands of marks, scuffs, nicks, dents and scratches litter its surface, each one representing a little bit of work. Most of the marks are angled in such a way as to represent rain falling down on the figure digging.
The sign is dripping in symbolism. I look at it and wonder how many people have worked beside it. How many hands have touched it? How many motorists has it warned? How many hours has it stood outdoors; a monument to true hard work?
​As well as the work boot, the design language and symbolism of UK road signs should perhaps be adopted by the working class.
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This work is a tribute to that road sign and all that it represents to me.