Nicole Manning
she/her
To continue to live even when you don’t have the stomach for it
In this body of work, I delve into the intricate subject of chronic pain, examining its manifestation as a result of trauma and its embodiment in the human form - with emphasis on the stomach. This autobiographical series is rooted in my personal journey with chronic stomach pain, exploring the interplay between PTSD, mental challenges, the brain-to-gut connection and physical afflictions.
Within my series of paintings, I aim to encapsulate the common symptoms associated with PTSD through the use of rich symbolism, such as the deer representing hyper-vigilance. Consequently, this series embodies underlying themes of vulnerability and courage, fear and fearlessness, bravery and cowardice. Through the imagery of curled bodies, I seek to convey the visceral experience of enduring this debilitating and dominating stomach pain.
By illuminating the often invisible complexities of chronic pain, I aim to provoke a deeper engagement with its pervasive prevalence and profound implications on the human experience.
Teeming with Fear (and Fearlessness), 2024, oil on canvas, 90cm x 90cm
Rotting to the Core, 2024, oil on canvas, 150cm x 110cm
I'll dress like your niece and wash your swollen feet, 2024, oil on canvas, 90cm x 90cm
Cruel Nature has Won Again, 2024, oil and acrylic on canvas, 110cm x 160cm
Cheer up sleepy Jean, 2024, oil on canvas, 120cm x 130cm
Echoes of Longing, 2024, oil on canvas, 70cm x 100cm
Pearly Gates, 2024, oil on canvas, 80cm x 60cm
To continue to live even when you don't have the stomach for it, 2024, installation view
Roadkill, 2024, stoneware clay sculpture
To continue to live even when you don't have the stomach for it, 2024, installation view
Research
Studio insights image, 2024
Teaching Placements
New Cross College: Finglas (6 weeks)
St. Vincents: Glasnevin (10 weeks)
Sutton Park: Sutton (10 weeks)