jenr8
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Artist's Statement

This embroidery work evolved from doodles on magazine pictures.  In the 90's I moved to Toronto and was heavily inspired and influenced by the downtown graffiti.  I photographed the scene for 10+ years and had my own creative explorations with stencils, stickers and flyers which led to the face doodles.  In 2010, I took the face pictures and put them on fabric so I could embroider the designs on.  In the last 7 years I've taken this work from the streets into the home by combining textiles with photography and giving these unique pieces a modern twist using a traditional craft.   

I love colours and patterns, but more than decoration there seems to be meaning infused in the lines, shapes and elements adorning these portraits, like secrets hidden in plain sight.  Sometimes I recognize the things from my own life and experience woven in but I try to let the lines and shapes of the faces become what they will.  The slowness of the stitches and the subconscious imagery triggers a deeper memory of our ancient nature while being inspired by graffiti, pop art and modern design.  My jenr8 tag can be found incorporated into each piece since 2015.

jenr8art@gmail.com
  • shop
  • gallery
    • embroidery gallery
    • painting gallery
  • news
  • bio
  • contact
  • links
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