Bea Last, a Scottish artist, weaves a narrative of raw beauty and profound meaning through her unique creative practice. Currently based in the picturesque landscapes of Scotland, Last’s work is a testament to her dedication to the process and her ability to turn recycled, repurposed, found, salvaged, or gifted materials into what she eloquently refers to as ‘sculptural drawing.’
Her creations, abstract in form, serve as windows into both inner and outer landscapes, challenging prevailing perceptions and sparking dialogues on topics as weighty as conflict, humanitarianism, and the looming climate crises. Last’s art is a silent rebellion, a visual exploration that goes beyond the aesthetic, delving into the very fabric of our existence.
One of her installations, titled “THE RED BAGS Re-Imagined 2022,” stands as a testament to Last’s ability to transform materials into poignant commentary. Crafted from repurposed waterproof canvas, bamboo, wire, and bearing the scars of bullet holes, this installation is an emotional response to the pressing issues of conflict, mass human migration, and the refugee crisis.
The installation, initially housed at The Oxo Tower Bargehouse on the Southbank of London, is a powerful representation of the fragility and strength inherent in humanity. Consisting of 300 meticulously handcrafted red bags, the piece becomes a metaphor for the burdens each individual carries through life. The choice of materials is deliberate—a commentary on the robustness of the human spirit despite the vulnerabilities that life often imposes.
“THE RED BAGS Re-Imagined” has undergone three transformations to date, transitioning seamlessly from indoor to outdoor installations. The third iteration found its place in the gardens of the York Art Gallery & Museum for the Aesthetica Art Prize 2023, where Last had the distinction of being shortlisted as a finalist.
The cyclical nature of the installations not only showcases Last’s versatility as an artist but also emphasizes the timelessness and universality of the themes she explores. In each re-imagining, the bags tell a different story, echoing the evolving nature of global situations and crises. It’s a subtle reminder that the narratives of conflict, migration, and refuge are not static—they change, they adapt, and they persist.
Last’s art, while abstract, is far from detached. It is an intimate exploration of the human experience, a visual diary that speaks to the complexities of our shared existence. The choice of the Oxo Tower Bargehouse as the initial location for “THE RED BAGS Re-Imagined” adds another layer to the narrative, as the Southbank of London becomes a metaphorical crossroads—a place where cultures collide, stories intersect, and the impact of global issues is palpable.
In the gardens of the York Art Gallery & Museum, Last’s installation becomes part of a different narrative—a conversation with nature, a juxtaposition of the man-made and the organic. Here, the red bags, laden with symbolism, find a new context, challenging the viewer to reconsider their understanding of the relationship between art and environment.
For Last, the aesthetics of her pieces are not mere embellishments; they are integral to her practice. Craft, form, relationship, context, connection, placement, and environment—all play a vital role in shaping her installations. Each element is carefully considered, contributing to the overall impact and resonance of the work.
Bea Last’s art invites contemplation. It is an invitation to look beyond the surface, to engage with the materials, and to confront the uncomfortable truths woven into the fabric of each installation. In a world inundated with visual stimuli, Last’s work stands out for its simplicity and depth, proving that art, when born from a genuine and thoughtful process, has the power to transcend the boundaries of the canvas and leave an indelible mark on the soul.
