Matthew Larwood, Glass Sketches (detail) 2005. Blown glass, overlaid colour, cut and polished, sandblasted, oiled.
Pump up the Jam
14 November 2005
"The Jam Factory studio is unique in the world in that people train in a crowded environment and earn an income while they are training," said Glass Studio creative director Matthew Larwood earlier this year. "There is nothing like it in the world."
JamFactory has three design and training studios, working in the areas of ceramics, metal and glass. The studios offer young designers the opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals.
The JamFactory Biennial 2005 is the culmination of 12 months intensive work and training in the various departments. Part of the show is Idolize, a body of work by Tegan Empson on show in the Atrium. Initially drawn to artefacts such as masks and other objects used in rituals of worship, she’s since drawn inspiration from more contemporary sources. Referencing media imagery and popular culture, she utilises thick blown and carved glass forms to create cute animal abstractions.
Creative Director of the Metal Studio Sue Lorriane is one of the founding members of Adelaide’s Gray Street workshop. Trained as a jeweller, Lorraine has always been primarily focused on the body, as both a source of inspiration and as a canvas for adornment. This interest has evolved into a fascination with the theoretical, physical and emotional aspects all relating to the human form.
Among those showing from the Metal Studio is Second Year Design Associate, Sally Mahony. She says her work “reflects things we see and experience everyday, small things, salty grit, smooth leaves, tiny bones. I recognise the part they take in shaping our identity by giving them a visual place on our body. I use precious metals, fabrics and recycled materials. Acid etching and occasional combinations of jewellery and printmaking techniques adds texture to my works.”
Head of the Glass Studio, Matthew Larwood was a founding member of Blue Pony Studio. Over the last 10 years he has successfully run a production business 'Matthew Larwood Handblown Glass' and exhibited around the country. His current practice deals with simple forms, resolving technical and design issues, and explores a 'progressive imagery' theme. Also from the Glass Studio, Tom Moore was awarded a 3-month fellowship at the Creative Glass Center of America in 1998. His work is funny and whimsical, making reference to animal and bird forms to create hybrid glass creatures. In his role as production manager Tom coordinates the studio production lines and commissions work produced by the studio.
The Ceramics Studio includes works by studio manager Philip Hart and associates Charmain Hearder, Isabella Niven and Jane Robertson.
More Information
JamFactory Biennial 2005
19 November – 19 February
Galleries 1, 2 & the Atrium
JamFactory, 19 Morphett St, Adelaide
Details: 08 8410 0727
Website: http://www.jamfactory.org.au/
