Guernsey Now and Then - print of mixed media piece by Lily Parkes

ARTIST STATEMENT: This piece was part of my "Guernsey Occupation" art unit, for which I looked into differences between Guernsey now (2023) and then (1940s). This topic has fascinated me from a young age and I find it inspiring how the island has worked to preserve bunkers and Martello towers as a stark reminder of such difficult times. I believe this preserves our island's history whilst highlighting the struggles of the islanders who stayed during the occupation. I have used black and white acrylic and the infamous photo of Nazi soldiers marching down the high street to try to capture the evocative juxtaposition of these themes, and prompt emotions about our beautiful island home. The artist was aged 18 when this piece was created.