Jessie Taylor
Degree: Fine Art BA Hons
University: Falmouth University
Graduation Year: 2022
New Blood Art Commentary
Spanning a vibrant spectrum of colour Jessie Taylor’s paintings emerge from a childish delight in the way things look and feel. They have a folky neon hue to them. Festivals are obviously a reference point here: when nature is adorned, transformed by the artificers of the party. The four sides of the paintings construct the space: the container, ritualistically speaking, for ecstatic communion with one’s surroundings.
That sounds a little serious, which these paintings are not: they are about letting loose and letting in, letting the colours flow and the shapes on textured surfaces whirl. There’s a slide toward the unreal, a ripple effect registered by the palette the artist chooses. The transfigured environs such as those of Boomtown festival are where Jessie researches for her immersive artworks. Exuberant, psychedelic forms make for joyful, other-worldly paintings, in a way reminiscent of some of the great fine art adorning album covers – think those of Jimi Hendrix and Tame Impala.
Artist Statement
As an artist I’m Interested in creating artwork that’s desirable and immersive, taking them to a world of illusory colours, textures, and images thus generating an infatuated response. Primarily working with a range of mixed media, my work comprehensively explores elements that surround nature, human form, altered realities and states of consciousness. Throughout painting and creating since I was little, I've always remembered being deeply moved by colour and texture. And no matter how far I explore new mediums and approaches to creating artwork outside of my style, I'm always compelled to use vibrant colours making my pieces bold and dynamic. For the past few years my inspiration and drive for creating has continuously reflected to my experiences in festivals – particularly Boomtown held in the UK. Huge immersive installations that distract you from reality and really bring you joy as you weave from stage to stage exploring the different themes and psychedelic artworks. I like to constantly challenge myself, creating a variety of contrasting artwork that withhold diverse skill and visual differences such as hyper realistic sculptures to high pigment pop art. Overall I hope to make work that is dense with interesting elements that immediately reflects creativity and fun.