Fuck Hostile Architecture

Belonging to my '(Host)ile' project

Late 15c., from French hostile "of or belonging to an enemy" (15c.) or directly from Latin hostilis "of an enemy, belonging to or characteristic of the enemy; inimical," from hostis, in earlier use "a stranger, foreigner," in classical use "an enemy," from PIE root ghos-ti- "stranger, guest, host."

I kept noticing how spikes on hostile architecture windowsill pieces reminded me of butt plugs and it made me laugh to imagine what it would be if those spikes kept going up people's arses. I chose red for its varied meanings. Here I am referring to love, passion and anger.

Inspired by windowsill hostile architecture pieces, this piece speaks about the reality of Black, Asian, bi-racial, Indigenous and trans people in the UK and their experiences navigating a sex industry that perpetuates the dominant forms of oppression such as patriarchy, racism and sexism that governs society as a whole.

Many sex workers characterise their work and define their circumstances, needs and priorities. However, spiralling living costs means some sex workers, particularly those without a home, are having to accept more potentially dangerous clients and work longer hours, jeopardising their safety and wellbeing, especially to those who have experienced domestic violence. (Source: www.nationaluglymugs.org)