A Conflict of Interest, 2016
Neon, transformers, flasher unit, wire, perspex
Overall dimensions: 113 x 34 x 10 cm

”The work is a neon typographic artwork with an inbuilt flasher unit, programmed to flash in sequence between the words ‘mother’, ‘other’, ‘me’ and ‘her’. A Conflict of Interests is a visual exploration of the ongoing identity struggles I’ve faced since the birth of my child. The constant flashing of several words within the word ‘mother’ is a reflection of the simultaneous identities we have as mothers, women, lovers, artists, daughters, and the fact that these identities are both connected and conflicted.

The act of childbirth and the role of women as mothers is something that has been simultaneously revered and ignored. I wanted this piece to speak from the subjective viewpoint of a mother myself, and to act as both a symbol of strength and admiration as well as a nod to these inner identity conflicts we all experience as women.” - McLaughlin