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I am an artist living and working in Scotland, UK. I make collage and assemblage art with found objects. By working with found objects, not only do I look at a more sustainable way of making, but I also have a starting point for my stories. Battered papers and discarded photos, being substrates with their own past, are a primal object for me. I try to layer them organically, creating associations and finding value in the stains and the cracks. When working with found photos I try to evoke memory, to draw a visual poem that can turn anonymity into identity. I work with curiosity and with a sense of wonder, discovering a return to my roots as a gatherer and connecting to my ancestors.

My references mainly come from the collective unconscious with works that explore loss and play, memory and identity, masculinity and gender norms. With my process I hope to transport the viewer to a time of simplicity and stories around the campfire, where they can create meanings and connections drawing from their own experiences. I offer a suggestion, a glimpse, but the most valid understanding of my work comes from the emotional responses of who observes, through their perception in the present moment.

Working for me is a personal and meditative exercise that I explore with mindfulness. I tend to work freely and without much planning. Mapping out my inner dialogues and human experiences helps me set the tone and find the message. But creating looks nothing like planning.

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“Jack’s work is as exciting as it is spellbinding. Each object within their collages and assemblage art is carefully selected to tell a stirring, yet sensitive story. I find myself decoding and analysing them as one would a celebrated, old poem. Yet, like poetry, I want to simply let their beautiful meanings and nature wash over me like a sea of mystery, charm and intrigue. Jack’s sense of duty is truly incredible - duty to tell stories, to speak the truth, to raise awareness of issues within the world, to challenge us, to teach us.”

(Cit. Hannah Yager, Founder of The Creative Feminists)