INTERview | Jessica Calderwood

INTERview | Jessica Calderwood

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JC_image_largeDescribe your work.

I consider myself an image-maker and sculptor that works in esoteric craft media, such as enameling. I like to use a combination of traditional and industrial process to make my work.

What is your background and training?

 I received a BFA from the Cleveland Institute of Art and an MFA from Arizona State University, with an emphasis Metalworking…

What are  you working on in your studio now?

Right now I’m frantically work on some brooches and large wall reliefs that I had to put on the back burner until finals were done!

Tell us about your process and how you came to work this way and has your practice changed much over time?

My enamel process I’m known for is using a painting and drawing approach to enamel, that some call ‘limoges’ in which I layer underglaze, sifted enamel, and china paints to JC_8image_largecreate a lot of depth. I have been working with enamel for 20 years and I am still learning new things about the process.

Do you experiment a lot or do you work within a specific set of parameters?

Yes, I like to experiment with scale, format, and lots of materials outside of enamel. I often find that sparks my creativity the most.

Describe your teaching style.

For a workshop, I show a bit of technical process and help artists to figure out how they could adapt it into their own work. I don’t teach in a step by step manner, but show lots of possibilities. It’s experimental…

What most inspires you?

coupledLately I have been most inspired by taking nature walks with my kids, making micro and macro discoveries are really wonderful and I can take samples back to my studio.

Who are your favorite artists/enamelists? (what are your most important influences)

Louise Bourgeois, Eva Hesse, Nick Cave, 18th century portrait miniaturists,

What is your dream project?

I would really love to do a large-scale public wall installation….someday…..

Tell us about the workshop you will be offering at the EGNE conference. 

I will be introducing different materials that can be used for drawing and painting: underglazes, china paints, and ceramic decals, fun!

Is there anything you’d like to add?

I’m looking forward to returning to the Northeast!!

 

Jessica Calderwood is an image-maker and sculptor that works primarily with the medium of metal and enamel. She uses a combination of traditional and industrial metalworking processes as a means to make statements about contemporary life. Her works are imbued with personal stories and vibrant color. She received her BFA from the kohler_studioshot_blkandwhiteCleveland Institute of Art and her MFA from Arizona State University, with an emphasis Metalworking. Her work has been exhibited throughout the U.S. and internationally in curated and juried exhibitions. She has participated in artist residencies with the John Michael Kohler Arts/Industry Program and the Mesa Arts Center. Her work has also been published in Metalsmith Magazine, American Craft, NICHE, Ornament, the Lark 500 series, and the Art of Enameling.