Nic Fern (b.1971) has established a multi-disciplinary practice which explores contemporary Australian notions of gender, class and hierarchy. Using iconic imagery borrowed from the Western visual art canon, she paints, draws, stitches and hand builds clay to create multilayered wall works and illustrated vessels. After completing a Master of
Fine Art at Sydney's National Art School, Fern travelled to Paris for a residency at Cité Internationale des Arts. While in Europe she was immersed in studying and scrutinizing the works of the famous collections and museums, allowing her to process the symbolism and motifs, and use them in her work juxtaposed with contemporary themes. Nic's work continues to reflect her deep concern for people isolated by a society that is increasingly focused on consumerism and status.