Ripleys Press Release

Date: 19th August 2021

Source: Fiona Parkinson Art Ltd

US Entertainment Giant Ripley’s puts Local Artist in Frame

From her modest studio in Bidford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, Fiona Parkinson produces stunning artwork using unique techniques and processes developed over many years. Fiona began sharing her work online during lockdown 2020 and quickly received international attention, winning significant art competitions and representation from galleries in Europe and the USA.

Her fascinating work is now being featured in this year’s “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” publication. Out on September 28 2021 in hardback, the content includes a 4 page spread with an interview and images of her work. A short film is currently in production and a unique piece of art was created for them to be featured across their online and offline platforms.

“Upon seeing Fiona’s work, we immediately wanted to share it with our audience. With astonishing precision, she captures complex ideas and emotions on an incredibly delicate medium, making Fiona’s artwork a true ‘Believe It or Not!’ We are very proud to have her as part of the Ripley’s family and look forward to seeing her future creations.” Jordan Orlando, Editor

https://www.ripleys.com/
https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/144/1446242/ripley_s-believe-it-or-not–2022/9781529135817.html

THE CREATOR OF DISSECTOLOGY

Created with real, sustainably sourced specimens from conservation and scientific breeders, her unique approach and mind-blowing creativity has been fascinating collectors and galleries worldwide. The specimens are restored, uniquely preserved, cut and carefully mounted to create each striking piece, a process she has named Insect Dissectology.

“I developed Insect Dissectology whilst exploring mediums for my work at university. I found myself spending almost as much time in the lab as the studio and by chance, was introduced to taxidermy. Much of my work was centred around the Vanitas and Memento Mori motifs which lead me to exploring the symbolism around butterflies and other insects.”

Fiona was delighted to be approached by the editor of the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! publication.

“It was such a surprise to hear from them (Ripley’s)! They found me through the work I’d been posting on Instagram during lockdown. I guess the unique style and methods I have developed appeal to those interested in unusual techniques and crafts as well as art. I jumped at the opportunity for my work to be seen by a different audience.

“I work with insects because I was seeking a way to reflect my emotions in my work and found that many of these species evoked feelings of fragility, strength, fear, life and death in me. I suppose my work tries to challenge the viewer’s preconceptions of the specimens and hopefully, asks us to question our reactions to others who we may misjudge.”

Fiona’s portfolio includes pieces created with moth, butterfly and spider specimens, and explores the fragility of life and our planet and the underlying bonds linking us with our solar system and beyond.

Her unique artwork and methods have received global attention. Fiona’s creations now attract a growing and passionate social media following, eager to view her latest works and gain an insight into her unique methods.

Contact
Representation available for media requests, interviews and appearances
Portfolio packs available on request, please call 0333 772 7475
jon@fionaparkinson.com
sarah@fionaparkinson.com

Links:
Artist’s global exhibitions: http://fionaparkinson.com/exhibitions/
More about Fiona: http://fionaparkinson.com/about/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fionaparkinsonart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fiona_taxidermy/

About Ripley Entertainment

Ripley Publishing is part of the Ripley Entertainment Inc. family of worldwide attractions, the global leader in location-based entertainment. More than 15 million people visit its 100-plus attractions in 10 countries each year. In addition to its Believe It or Not! Odditoriums, the Orlando, Florida-based company has publishing, licensing and broadcast divisions that oversee projects including the syndicated Believe It or Not! television show, best-selling books, and the popular syndicated cartoon strip, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, that still runs daily in countries around the world. Ripley Entertainment is a Jim Pattison Company, the second-largest privately held company in Canada. Learn more about Ripley’s Believe It or Not! by visiting Ripleys.com and following them on FacebookTwitterYouTube, and Instagram.