kelly sian rankin

about

Rankin is a visual artist, writer and educator, whose artwork focuses on the places and people that feel like home. Rankin’s practice is research-based; using art and creative spaces to explore community and belonging. Drawing on the power of narrative, Rankin’s research informs her photography and films, which unfold with the authenticity and immediacy of documentary. Rankin works predominantly with analogue film and photography; enjoying the therapeutic nature of the darkroom process and community.

Rankin grew to adulthood sandwiched between the rural New Forest and the city of Southampton. After spending her twenties in London, she now lives in Barnsley, Yorkshire. Each place, and each home, can be traced through Rankin’s work as she explores heritage, identity and belonging, through the female gaze.

current project

Rankin is currently researching and building a project which focuses on Britishish; both in terms of community and personal identity. This project began through an explorartion of coastal towns; her own heritage, archival imagery and memory. Through open dialogue and creative collaboration, participants will examine British values,traditions and symbols, both cherished and contested, offering new perspectives on what itmeans to belong. The project positions immigration and diversity not as external to Britishness, but as central to its story.

I am working on this project in collaboration with Barnsley Civic and Barnsley Foto Festival, of which I am a Festival Coordinator.

features & media

Emily Ryalls: Divine Archives (The Art House, Wakefield)
Viktoria Zuziak: Gender Benders AW20
Viktoria Zuziak: Dare You 2021-22
Rodeo Magazine
DIY Magaine
LOCK Magazine
CRASH Magazine
Far Out Magazine

education

BA Hons English and Media
MA Creative Writing and Critical Life
Secondary PGDE in English