Merrie Carlton’s practice is multi-disciplinary social narrative, drawing inspiration from her lived experiences to create a response to human behaviour and the societal norms that restrict and direct. By challenging the lies we are told and the lies we tell ourselves, her work examines the unquestioning acceptance of social expectations and inherited behaviours, pressing against the boundaries of taboos to stimulate debate.

Dark humor often hovers beneath playful titles, adding a provocative and sometimes uncomfortable edge to her works. Found objects are repurposed into artworks alongside more mainstream forms of expression such as oil paintings and plaster. The message often directs the medium, leading to a diverse array of creations including three-dimensional works, which mark a development from her earlier canvas and paper-based pieces.

Carlton’s practice has explored issues around body image, ageing, middle-class conformity, desire, and ill health. Through these themes, she aims to create relatable and accessible content, offering viewers an entry point to engage with the deeper narratives within the work. Ultimately, authenticity throbs at the heart of her practice, ensuring that each piece resonates with the viewer on a personal level.