Approved: 16.08.2006

Jan Truman

Archived
Approved: 16.08.2006

Fascinated by patterns and the intricacies posed by 'structures', my passion lies in pushing simple materials and techniques to experience new boundaries. In doing so I am able to explore the concepts of 'movement' and 'balance'.
Using the medium of textiles to express my ideas seemed a natural progression, having trained as a knitwear designer in the nineteen eighties. However, an unstoppable curiosity

Read more ...

 

Artist Statement

Fascinated by patterns and the intricacies posed by 'structures', my passion lies in pushing simple materials and techniques to experience new boundaries. In doing so I am able to explore the concepts of 'movement' and 'balance'. Using the medium of textiles to express my ideas seemed a natural progression, having trained as a knitwear designer in the nineteen eighties. However, an unstoppable curiosity early on, led to experiments to find alternative 'thread's to knit with. Fine copper wire soon became my chosen material, offering an intriguing sculptural rigidity that went way beyond the properties of convensional wool, silk, cotton or synthetics. I have continued to work with this medium, honing a distinctive style characterized by glass be-jewelments integrated within the knitted structure. These are important elements having the ability to draw light into a space and transform the intensity of the colours and textures within. Over the years my creative investigations have led to many interesting discoveries and exciting endeavours including: installations, interactive community initiatives, group shows, touring and solo exhibitions, plus artworks for public and site specific locatons and private commissions. Although the notions of 'Change' continue to inspire new works, 'BALANCE' now lies at the heart of my current investigations. Frustrated by impersonal digital technology I strive to re-connect people by electing to work with fundamental principals, centred on balance. My personal challenge is to create a series of moving or floating sculptures that evoke calmness and joy; acting as a counterpoint to express an alternative vision which uplifts people and their environments.

CV & Education

Solo exhibitions 2003 - A Splash of Colour, Whitchurch Silk Mill, Hampshire UK 2001 - Parallel Motion, County Museum, Taunton, Somerset 1999 - Dancing Spirals, Blackswan Gallery and Merlin Theatre, Frome, Somerset 1999 - Spirals and Dance, Rhyl Art Centre, North Wales Group exhibitions 2007 - 'Flight', Wildlife and Wetland Trust. Slimbridge, Gloucestershire UK 2004 - Jewel for the Landscape Floating sculpture for the 'Response to Eden' exhibition, Eden Project, Cornwall UK 2001 - Industrial Relations, Coldharbour Mill, Devon 2001 - Material Eviedence, Montecute House, National Trust, Someset 1998 - Celebration of Craftsmanship, Cheltenham, Gloustershire 1997 - Contemporary Decorative Arts, Sotheby's, London 1997 - Fifth International Textile Fair, Kyoto, Japan 1997 - The Big Time, UK Touring Exhibition, South West Textile Group Residencies 2003 - The kite project, Bishop Fox's school, Taunton Somerset UK Private commissions 2011 - Spiral dancer sculpture, Clients home, London UK 2003 - 'Dance Formations' series of window sculptures, clients home Cambridge, UK Competitions, prizes and awards 2002 - Research award new materials , David Canter memorial Award, David Canter memorial Fund 1995 - First prize Fashion jewellery, Goldsmiths' craft Council, London UK 1985 - First prize winner. Silk cushion design, Homes and garden Magazine, London UK Site specific 1997 - Stainless swirl garden sculptures, Hampton Court Palace Flower Show, London UK