Alison Little: Liverpool-Based Artist Tackling Social Issues Through Conceptual Art
Alison Little, a renowned North-West based artist, has spent over a decade creating thought-provoking works that explore themes of social justice, gender violence, and mental health. She has been commissioned for major public art projects, including the Superlambanana Trail and Penguins, both iconic installations in Liverpool.
SV: Sex by Violence – A Pioneering Series of Animated Sculptures on Sexual Violence
Alison’s most recent body of work, SV: Sex by Violence, is a striking series of four animated sculptures that depict the harrowing stages of a sexual assault. These works were exhibited in a solo show at zauhause Gallery, located in Gostins Hanover Street, Liverpool City Centre in July 2017. Through these visceral sculptures, Alison sought to raise awareness about sexual violence and its profound impact on survivors.
Shatter the Silence: Violence Against Women
In addition to her sculptural work, Alison also curated the Shatter the Silence: Violence Against Women exhibition, which took place at the Quaker Meeting House on School Lane in Liverpool City Centre. This powerful group exhibition highlighted the ongoing struggle against gender-based violence and provided a platform for artists to advocate for change.
Life from the Waist Down – Addressing Recovery in Mental Health
Life from the Waist Down, part of Alison’s broader body of work, is the fourth piece in her series on sexual violence and recovery. This poignant work was showcased at Unit 51 in Liverpool’s Baltic Triangle during 2016 Mental Health Week. Through this piece, Alison captured the emotional and physical process of recovery following trauma.
Brainscape and Bipolar B: Exploring the Human Condition
In 2015, Alison exhibited Brainscape, a human head-inspired sculpture, followed by Bipolar B in 2014 for the Williamson Gallery in Birkenhead marking her growing exploration of mental health through art. Bipolar B was part of the celebratory events at the gallery, offering a visual commentary on the complexity of mental health issues.
Raising Awareness Through Art: Commission for Race Equality Centre in Derby
In 2016, Alison was commissioned by the Race Equality Centre in Derby to create a powerful installation highlighting the issue of race hate crime. This project involved a polythene figure and a broken wheelchair, symbolising the profound impact of race-based violence.
Speaking Out: Art as Advocacy Against Sexual Violence
Alison’s engagement with issues of sexual violence began in 2014 with her work for the Speaking Out exhibition at Embrace Arts, University of Leicester. She also spoke at the Speaking Out Conference, where she discussed the creative process behind her piece and its role in raising awareness about sexual violence.
Reclaim the Night: Supporting Annual Anti-Violence March
Alison also plays a key role in organising the Reclaim the Night march, held annually in Liverpool. This event seeks to raise awareness about sexual violence and create safer spaces for women. Through her art and activism, Alison continues to advocate for change and promote solidarity in the fight against gender-based violence.
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