Violence into Art: Dizzy Bagley

Dizzy is a young London-based artist whose art is focused on highlighting the issues of domestic abuse derived from her personal experiences as well as the surrounding world. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you do.

My name is Dizzy Bagley, originally from Liverpool, but currently based in London. I wouldn’t say I have a particular medium of art that I specialise in, but my favourites are photography, collage and instillations. I love to use art as a form of expression of my feelings, taste, opinions and experiences.

What inspires you as an artist? 

What’s going on in the world, my personal experiences, film, exhibitions… the list is endless to be honest!

What is the story behind your project ‘I’m Not a Model’? 

I felt that the information/posters about gender-based violence were almost bit cheesy. Who were these women/actresses/models? Who photographed them? Although something being cheesy might not appear to be damaging, caricatures allow space for the viewer to disconnect. So, I wanted to create an informational poster and do it in a way that wasn’t triggering but also wasn’t cheesy/dramatised. 

I wanted to make sure the models were actually survivors, to show the audience that regular people are survivors. The text of female relations written around the edge was an additional reminder of the women close us that are affected by this violence. 

The bright colours draw you in and almost mask the sad concept that the work is portraying, which is a reflexion of reality, that survivors often have to mask their true feelings in public.

The blank image was created after lots of women told me their story but did not want me to share it (understandably).

After sharing these images, the blank space in particular, made a lot of women feel seen, which resulted in many more women reaching out to tell me their experiences, it was really an honour to be able to connect with so many women.

What advice would you give to the survivors of gender-based violence?  

My advice would be to speak to a professional who can help guide you through the stages, including the aftermath. I would also suggest treating yourself to an abundance of self-love, even though it will feel super unnecessary and possibly unnatural, I promise you, that you deserve it. 

Is there anything you would like to share with SATEDA’s audience?

Not everyone talks about gender-based violence, but the more I speak about it, the more I’m learning it’s something the majority of women have experienced, so you are really not alone and the women around you can be your inspiration. There are successful happy women who have been in dark places, one day you may be the inspiration for someone else’s healing, so keep going!