Artist Statement
"I have a background in the arts with a degree in Sculpture from Edinburgh Art College (1993). It has taken me many years to work out my own relationship to the arts (an ongoing process!). I do know that for me, the process of making art is by far the most enriching way to explore my life.
Back at art college I read Suzi Gablick's book “The Re-enchantment of Art” where she spoke of the need for art to once again fulfil a social role, to be of service to the world. I have since worked within the field of Eco Art where artists use their work to motivate social and environmental action. I am currently working with art as a transformative tool in the area of human values and emotions. I have studied art therapy techniques both formally through IDT (Interactive Drawing Therapy) and also informally through my own art therapy curriculum and practice.
It is from this background that I offer art as a way to engage deeply with life! I am not a counsellor or therapist; it is more that I facilitate a creative process of self-reflection and growth. This is work that I do with myself and share with others. It comes from my passion for art to be deeply relevant to life, and also from within my 12 year practice as a student of zen."
Click on the links below to read specific statements that relate to Jo's paintings and installations.
Gallery
Farewell Spit Residency
Give it Up!
Small Steps Monumental Task
Take Heart
Back at art college I read Suzi Gablick's book “The Re-enchantment of Art” where she spoke of the need for art to once again fulfil a social role, to be of service to the world. I have since worked within the field of Eco Art where artists use their work to motivate social and environmental action. I am currently working with art as a transformative tool in the area of human values and emotions. I have studied art therapy techniques both formally through IDT (Interactive Drawing Therapy) and also informally through my own art therapy curriculum and practice.
It is from this background that I offer art as a way to engage deeply with life! I am not a counsellor or therapist; it is more that I facilitate a creative process of self-reflection and growth. This is work that I do with myself and share with others. It comes from my passion for art to be deeply relevant to life, and also from within my 12 year practice as a student of zen."
Click on the links below to read specific statements that relate to Jo's paintings and installations.
Gallery
Farewell Spit Residency
Give it Up!
Small Steps Monumental Task
Take Heart