My Space: Aysh Field
What makes a truly creative space?
Words and image by Timothea Moylan
Image by Belinda Monck
Aysh Field opens their front door, nodding to the shadow-like cat, Peigh, in their arms. “I told her you were coming round today,” they smile at me over the slinky mass of black fur. Peigh was the original inspiration for the painting that graced post-punk band Coldwave’s No Conflict EP – a striking piece that just saw Aysh take out a SA Music Award for Best Cover Art. We catch up in their home studio to chat about their playful style, local music, zines and making art with friends.
How would you describe your creative practice?
I experiment with colour and textures, I also like to experiment with the same motif and take it on a little journey with me. Long legs and big feet are my favourite at the moment, and I always try to incorporate Peigh into my paintings.
Where do you take your inspiration from?
It’s mainly from my own experiences and then I play on it in a silly way, modifying it, making my own little imaginary world of very mundane things. I’m also inspired by the people at Adelaide Central School of Art (ACSA) – the people there are the best in the world! It’s like a little family.
What projects do you have coming up that you’re most excited about?
Working on High Horse – it’s a collective of close friends from ACSA. I think making art with your friends is the best thing you can do in the world and I’m very lucky to be able to do that. I’m excited about us creating new things together. High Horse released a zine in September.
How did that start?
I had an idea during an art history [class]. My friend Marley [Scholz] was showing us his tattoo flash sheets [and I thought] maybe we could make a little zine with our own flashes and collaborate with someone who could stick and poke them. And then it came true! We all wanted to work together because we have very different art forms – sculptural, performance, painting. It’s really nice to put it all together and support each other.
Aside from your SA Music Awards win, what are some career highlights for you so far?
Making the first zine with High Horse was a massive achievement! Doing my first market with my friends [was] something I thought I’d never be able to do. And making it through my first year of university!
Last question! What’s on your stereo while you work?
I love listening to local artists on repeat while I work – I find it very, very inspiring. I’m on the Swapmeet grind at the moment. I listened to ‘New Wood, Old Ashes’ for four hours while painting once!
Order the High Horse Zine (Issue 1 – Flash Edition) online via Big Cartel.
