Jenny Blake Artist

Artist Statement

Jenny Blake, Tipping Point,

Gallery 2

Strathnairn Arts

6 April – 2 May 2022

Tipping Point is a continuation of my commitment to the subject of climate change. This body of work is a departure from making larger works. I wanted to present an intimate look at the subject. Presenting 15 smaller works 30x30cm framed in oak.

This body of work features futuristic paintings of unrecognisable and uninhabitable landscapes, devoid of foliage. I have worked with exaggerated colours, with mountain ranges disappearing into rhythmic lines.

In unearthed a subtle light in the distance is my way of hoping for a better future.  Our fragile environment is getting closer to the point of no return. Once the tipping point is crossed, erratic changes to the climate system will become commonplace.

I work with non-traditional tools, layering and scratching into the canvas. Texture and rough surfaces mimic damage to the landscape. Horizons are a common theme in my work, my way of looking ahead.

Living and working close to the mountains is a constant reminder of our environment’s beauty and fragility.

As dark as the scientist’s predictions are, I want to believe there is a glimmer of hope. We all want action from our leaders before it is too late.  

My work is pinpointing this moment in time. We are all reckoning with climate change and my art has gone there too.

When big works are needed for big walls, it is a chance for me to give homage to Rothko, a mid-century American artists who painted big and colourful using simple blocks of colour. Filling this large display home was such a magical experience, a chance to collaborate with the designer and Architect, Alex Arnold. It is wonderful to be able to collaborate with other artists and designers

“Wood is a precious resource and can store carbon long after the tree has been harvested. As an artist, I see wood as a precious material. It is concerning that so much of it ends up in landfills,” said Blake.

“Making art from wood offcuts is one way of being able to highlight the positive environmental impact upcycling and repurposing can have. Our atmosphere has the most CO2 levels in history and our oceans are experiencing record levels of trash.

“Making art from trash is great for our environment and has social benefits. More and more communities are recognising the importance of upcycling, repurposing, and the act of making. Making helps with switching off our problems and tap into our creative self.” SOLD OUT

Block by Block assemblage series SOLD OUT