Christian Coackley
'Exaggerated Realities'
'Plastic Britain' is a piece that speculates on the extreme outcome of our lack of action towards preventing global warming. Global warming has resulted in the dramatic rise in sea levels across the world, and as they continue to rise, Britain's shorelines will be at risk. The drawing is set on the shore of 'The Wash', as this area will suffer dearly from flooding in the future. Furthermore, it is the site where King John lost his crown. Whilst attempting to cross The Wash's marshlands, the tide suddenly came in, sending many of his valuable belongings into the water, never to be recovered. His reign was not met with support from the British public and he is often portrayed as a greedy villain, most famously in Disney's 'Robin Hood'. Our negligence towards the planet will result in an world similar to what this drawing portrays.
The planet beyond recovery.
Buried beneath a plastic tomb.
'Plastic Britain'
The drawing was made when I was in the hospital after interrupting my study at the Bartlett. When I wasn’t in therapy I was making this drawing. I was filled with self doubt and my head was constantly ringing with negative thoughts. I didn’t know how to make it stop and I was spiralling. The only stability I had was when I was making the drawing.
This drawing in itself doesn’t have any literal or metaphorical meaning. However making the drawing was the only thing I could hold on to for stability during my time there.
'Sox and Hotdogs'
The British fishing industry post Brexit.
There is a myth that Britain’s fishing industry will benefit substantially by leaving the EU. In theory, Britain will have full control over its seas, claiming back the fish that are hoovered up by European fisherman, increasing its ‘sea of opportunity’. In reality, small scale British fishermen who depend on the EU market will be wiped out. Furthermore, patrol boats will be required to protect British waters from European trawlers. A fourth cod war is imminent.
Made for my dad’s birthday. I was given the prompt ‘fish and chips’.
'Fish and Chips'