Jo Lay
Website: www.johannalayartist.com/artist-statement
Instagram: johannalay_artist
Statement
Recording, through careful observational drawing and the collecting and investigating of materials, underpins my creative practice and informs my work. Found objects and vintage items clutter my studio, providing abundant, rich source material as well as the joy of their discovery and collection. I am interested in people so my creative practice also includes regular life drawing and portraiture sessions.
My artwork spans several disciplines including and I relish the variety, stimulation and opportunities this presents. My love of vintage objects is evident in much of my subject matter and forms an integral part of my practice. The physical act of all making and the processes involved excite and interest me but it is paint in all its manifestations that I return to and where my real interest of expression lies.
I produce work that is very personal, intimate and at times vulnerable; focusing on the fragility of life relationships and the lived experience. Themes that include childhood, memory, loss love, motherhood and family are investigated and realised in whatever media is appropriate and "speaks" of my intentions.
Ideas and themes are not at first glance explicit but must be de-coded to reveal what is hidden. The artist/audience relationship is important to me and it is my intention that my work directly connects with those for whom it resonates.
A significant part of my practice involves the recording of the artefacts of everyday life. In particular, what is discarded or remains but that retains an imprint of its former owner or wearer and so becomes a totem. These objects have their own stories often known only to those for whom they have significance but they can speak to a wider audience; encouraging dialogue and a greater shared understanding.
Biography
I studied for a graphic design diploma locally then a degree in textiles at Manchester Metropolitan University. Whilst in my final year I won a place on the RSA Young Designers into Industry scheme, spending a year in Birmingham with Sue Schippel Design. I worked freelance following the placement, producing designs for many different furnishing and bedding companies.
Moving back to Cornwall in the mid 90's took me in a different direction, as teaching became my main focus. I gained a teaching qualification in Further and Higher Education from the University of Exeter and later QTS from Bath Spa University. I taught art and textiles full time, mostly at A level and GNVQ until the birth of my children and then took up a part time position at an Independent School.
More recently, I have focused on my own creative practice. I completed the Defining Practice and Studio Practice courses at Newlyn School of Art. I exhibit my work locally and further afield and enjoy spending time with other artists and attending life drawing groups and other creative courses.
Recently I have been the Artist in Residence at The Kehelland Trust, near Camborne, Cornwall. The residency focuses on recording the work of the trust and those that attend and work at the centre