Jo Arksey

Concepts By pulping waste and reclaiming materials others have rejected, papermaking and printmaking have become for me a process of discovery and evolution. Through use of concealed colour texture and rhythm, I make sculptural constructions and wall-pieces which explore the contrast between external appearance and the internal; the barriers we meet in society and the facades we hide behind. The pieces are moulded and embossed and the pulp often combined with text, hair, thread, tacks and various print techniques, creating an irresistible surface. Although essentially abstract, my work is often evocative of something recognisable. My work can be beautiful and enticing but hidden, are ideas the viewer may not choose to linger over should they be presented in a less appealing, less enigmatic way. Influences Conceptual, sensory, recycling, installation, interactive, abstract, tactility, personal, memory, emotional, evocative, sculptural, fibre art, tapestry, construction, textiles, collaborative, community, mixed media, printmaking, drawing, paper-making, outsiderart, mental health, people Career path Qualifications: 1993 MA European Fine Art, Winchester School of Art (including nine months studio practice in Barcelona) 1988 BA Hons (First Class) Constructed Textiles, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art, Dundee 1983 Foundation in Art and Design, West Nottinghamshire College of Art Teaching Experience: 1997 to present - Education Co-ordinator for The Travelling Gallery 2010 to present - leading exhibition tours for groups of adults with Visual Impairment, City Art Centre Edinburgh 2000 to present - running various creative workshops with adults, children and SEN groups 2009 to 2010 - running innovative workshops round theme of Robert Burns for adults over 60 and children from Royal Blind School, culminating in group show 2001 to 2003 - Visual Studies lecturer, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art, Dundee 1995 - First year General Art and Design Lecturer, Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art Dundee 1994 - Lecturer, Visual Studies, Scottish College of Textiles, Galashiels Areas of work: Early years education Primary education Secondary education Tertiary education Adult education Community arts Exhibiting Healthcare arts Lecturing Residencies Studio workshop technician Project management Workshops Art therapy Radio/TV Special needs Collections: Djanogly Art Centre, Nottingham City Art Centre, Edinburgh Private collections in UK Zurich, Barcelona, New York, Hamburg,