Heidi Pearce is a London-based artist who has developed her ‘Lights on Uncanny’ theory that introduces a new mode of ‘uncanniness’ within contemporary art.

Rejecting the concept of ‘darkness’, her sculptures source uncanny power through ambiguity and familiarity; awkwardly looming, these forms suggest an uncomfortable - yet energetic - existence. Pearce studied Fine Art at Goldsmith University of London (2019) and is currently a member and participant of School of the Damned 2022. ​Pearce has worked on numerous collaborative projects that have advanced the theoretical development of her own practice, including a joint exhibition at Limbo Collective with Swedish artist Tobias Bradford, Honey, I’m Home?!, and Tim Spooner’s solo exhibition Cuteness Forensics at Battersea Arts Centre. ​

Through the development of her ‘Lights on Uncanny’ theory, Pearce presents a body of work that encourages the viewer to question their tension – or indeed complacency – surrounding overfamiliarity. Rather than hidden and mysterious, Pearce’s furry protagonists are instead overtly noticeable as they awkwardly dominate composition and spaces hitherto unpopulated by the animal world. As they arch their backs, kick back their heads and let out a tongue-wagging cry, the dogs encourage discomfort, vivacity and humour in equal measure.