Maxine graduated in an MA in Fine Art from the University for the Creative Arts (2021). She works at the University for the Creative Arts in number of roles including as a visiting lecturer. Maxine’s work explores ideas relating to identity and ageing feminine subjectivity, in particular the relationship between the menopause and the maternal. She works in multi-disciplinary modes which includes soft sculpture, and multi-sensory installation using live materials. The changing states of the materials embodies notions of ageing and transformation aiming to challenge traditional perceptions of ageing, often viewed solely as a period of decline. Her work shares surrealist sensibilities and connects to a psycho-physical dynamic.
Maxine exhibits regularly including recent exhibitions at the Halpern Gallery, Nucleus Arts Centre, Medway and she has shown as part of the Power of Women Festival Thanet 2022. She also delivers creative workshops in a range of mediums. She presents papers on her practice and research at conferences, such as the ‘Missing Mother’ conference (Bolton University 2021), and the ‘Conflict and Creative Practice Conference’ (UCA, 2021). She is due to deliver a paper on the ‘Maternal and Creative Practice’ at SESAC Conference (US, October). Maxine is planning to undertake a PhD in her subject specialism this year.
Surrealism and Serendipity: A Feminist Praxis
Co-presenting with Bev Hayward
Often serendipity is the foundation of feminist art practices. The unexpected is formed in the expected. Opportunity is seized to explore the everyday art practices of women, for whom their art and craftwork is created and woven into their daily activities of care and paid employment. This is discussed in the examples presented: Reach by Maxine Chester; Mocking the Master Narrative by Bev Hayward; and Vessels by Carole Hatfield.
The presentation begins with a short introduction to Surrealism to considers the principles and foundations of the movement in the Modern period. It then moves onto explore the complexities of how women were represented and ‘included’ during this time. In the ethos of the theme of the conference, ‘Art: Unexpected’. I will encourage audience participation to consider aspects of chance, randomness and the unexpected.