Landscape Artist
I work on canvas, wood, perspex and canvas paper. I only work with oil paint because I find the creative process of working with them endlessly exciting and thrilling. I layer paint in thin layers and glazes, then scratch the surface to reveal the colours below. I also use pure graphite pencils and occasionally liquid metal, or silver leaf, to add texture to the composition.
I live in a small city, full of the old traditions, yet still young, vibrant and constantly re-inventing itself. Yet I love to drive out of it, away from the noise and excitement that the city brings. I take many photographs and sketch, which I then use as inspiration when I am back in the studio. However it is primarily my memory that triggers my work. I can close my eyes and remember where I was, what the weather was like, the colours, the sounds and the smell of earth.
Prints are not available of my original paintings. However I am currently attending a year-long certificate course in printmaking at The Curwen Press as I wish to expand my skills, experiment and take a few more risks with my work.
Having lived in Southern California for several years I have a growing number of US collectors, and I was represented by The Agora Gallery in New York during 2009/10, however I now regularly exhibit in the UK with Ovenden Contemporary Art, Cambridge Open Studios, Siott Gallery and from November 2011 I will be represented by Cambridge Contemporary Art. In 2010 I was selected to become a member of the Cambridge Drawing Society who exhibit twice a year in Cambridge UK. In 2009/10 I collaborated with interior designers who used my work in show homes.
Since the beginning of 2010 I have been continually working on private and corporate commissions. 2011 has brought more commissions and the opportunity to collaborate with other artists in new and exciting ventures. I also have a permanent collection at Lighting Sensations, a contemporary lighting specialist company based in Cambridgeshire and I often organise one-off group shows with other artists and crafts professionals, raising money for local charities.
Originally trained in Furnishing Textiles, I pursued an alternative career before returning to painting twelve years ago. I then went on to study at The Cambridge School of Art. Private works are owned in the US, Canada, Australia, Southern India and the UK. Press here to read a recent interview of me by Sonja Benskin-Mesher for Ovenden Art.
Click here for Jo's website
Click here for Jo's Ovenden Contemporary profile
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