Jayne Armstrong

Against the Grain

Woodcarver

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Each piece matters

Jayne turned to woodcarving after an academic career
She explores the sculptural quality of locally sourced wood
She refuses the hierarchical distinction between art and craft

For Jayne Armstrong, 2010 was the year that changed her life for ever. After spending many years working as an academic at Falmouth University, England, which is celebrated for excellence in art, craft and design, and “thinking, talking and writing about art and craft”, Jayne decided that she wanted “to make, to create, to work with (her) hands”. Having trained with glass artists, ceramicists and wood turners, Jayne has spent a great deal of time discussing ideas and analysing objects with art and craft theorists and historians. Her work has evolved through all of these connections and she has a process of experimentation with references traditions within each medium. Using primarily fresh, locally sourced wood to explore its sculptural and aesthetic possibility, she makes contemporary, functional and sculptural objects.

Interview

When did you decide to become an artist?
There was always a desire. Working as an academic, I saw my research and writing as very much a creative process. My work with wood, glass and ceramics is an extension of my writing. It is all underpinned by an idea and enabled through a mastery of technique.
Was working with Roy Weare inspirational?
His creative approach to his chosen material inspired me immensely. Roy taught me how to use a woodturning lathe to create sculptural pieces. He also taught me that the lathe can be the starting point for something that is later carved, crafted and transformed by other means.
How is your craft linked to where you live?
Most of my wood comes from the area where I live. A local tree surgeon supplies me with as much wood as I need and a local woodsman supplies me with fallen oak and chestnut. I have also created work that speaks directly to the history and culture of Brittany where I live.
Why do you refuse the distinction between art and craft?
It is a distinction that emerged in the western world in the 16th century and one that is not recognised in many cultures of the world. Items that might be considered ‘primitive’ or ‘craft’ in the west are valued as artistic-objects within the context in which they are made.

Jayne Armstrong is a rising star: she began her career in 2018