Janet Harrison

In our world of multimedia global communication, shared experiences are brought to our doorsteps at a pace which is unprecedented. My view of being an individual disconnected from these tragic experiences of humanity is challenged. Yet I have an innate curiosity about the world I exist in and relate to.

Therein lays a dilemma to witness, be aware of, be conscious of, or deny the basic realities of life.

The meaning and essential nature of being human fascinates me. I see and feel all around me the joys and tragedies in its everyday mundane forms. I question the notion of the quiet impending doom in our inherent mortality. My work attempts to offer reflections of the balance of this state and the choices we can make.

"I am never any one of my attitudes; any one of my actions (human beings) must maintain a balance between existence, their roles and nothingness to become authentic beings"

Sartre

 I am a north east based artist having just completed my honours degree at Sunderland University based at the National Glass centre, graduating with a first class honours degree in 2011. Prior to this I pursued a career in nursing and art became a hobby whilst I brought up my family. My work medium is mainly glass kiln casting using a technique called lost wax casting. This involves making a wax model then encasing it into a mould then steaming the wax out to create the void for the glass.

 I have been fortunate to exhibit at the V&A in Inspired By in 2010 , and Sculpture In Context in Dublin  2010 and again in September 2011. In December 2010 I was awarded a student commission by John Lewis and the sculpture became part of Enchanted Parks a winter outdoor exhibition in Saltwell Park Gateshead.