Skip to main content

Koshi Nage

By  Iain Hales 2022

Jesmonite, MDF, ceramic tiles, grout and aluminium.

“Koshi Nage” is inspired by suffragist Edith Garrud’s use of jujitsu in teaching women self defence. Garrud (1872-1971) played a central role in training the WSPU’s Bodyguard Unit, known popularly in the press as the “Suffrajitsu” 

The work’s colour-pallet is derived from the colours used in UK Suffragette movement’s insignia - purple, white and green.  The blocky architectural fragments are redolent of the bricks suffragettes carried in their handbags and used to smash windows as part of their protests.

20200717 portrait axis 1718385177 Iain Hales

Rude Girl (Suprematist Earring)

Untitled (Woman at her toilette)

Cornice

Join Axis

We support artists

Funding, visibility, connection and practical help. 

Membership includes £15 million of Public Liability Insurance!

Axis is an independent charity, funded by our members. 
Become a Member

OPEN: £50,000 directly to artists.

Axis Artist Awards 2026

The Axis Artist Awards support artists to develop their practice, test ideas, make work and keep going. 

Learn more