The Awakening came from the idea of that moment when something shifts and you begin to question what you've been taught, what you've accepted and the beliefs you've carried through life.

It's about waking up to the idea that although we can't always control what happens around us, we can become more aware of our thoughts, our choices and the way we respond.

I created the installation using recycled denim and layered fibre techniques, choosing different shades of blue to represent that feeling of suddenly being jolted awake, almost like the shock of cold water hitting your skin.

The recycled denim was important to me too. It's worn, imperfect and often discarded, but I wanted to take those imperfections and turn them into something strong and beautiful.

What might have been thrown away becomes part of something new.

At the centre is Queen Amirah, protected by Yera and her brother Kijani, two warrior figures whose heads electronically move from side to side as though they are constantly watching and protecting her.

For me, they represent the part of ourselves that becomes more aware learning to recognise distractions, question limiting beliefs and protect the way we think.

The Awakening is ultimately about waking up to yourself and realising that you have more power over your inner world than you may have believed.

Finding Evo

Finding Evo is the narrative extension of The Awakening installation.

In previous exhibitions, viewers often remarked that Cornwall’s mannequins appeared so lifelike they might begin moving at any moment. Playing on this perception, she challenged herself to bring that illusion into reality, constructing a fully wearable mannequin costume. Drawing on over 25 years in the fashion industry, the sculptural garment blurred the boundary between static object and living form.

Collaborating with dancer and choreographer Evo, the concept evolved into a film component within The Awakening. In the video, Evo represents the awakened subconscious the aspect of self that has broken free from conditioning and is ready to explore infinite possibility.

When the artist and photographer leave the studio, Evo comes to life, dances and departs, leaving the installation behind.

His departure becomes symbolic. Once awakened, consciousness cannot simply return to stillness.