a detailed shot of my most recent sculpture/installation, Impatience (2013), acrylic plastic, 5ft x 4ft
Briefly describe the work that you do.
My work largely focuses on the process, the materials, and how someone could identify with the finished product. I aim to combine fine art and design by applying design modeling to the artwork, or by creating designs from a sculptural standpoint.
At what point in your life did you decide to become an artist?
I’ve always wanted to work in a creative environment. My mother has encouraged my creativity since I was a child. She noticed I would copy anything she scribbled on paper, and used that as a way to introduce me to writing and drawing when I was only a couple years old.
It wasn’t until early high school that I truly decided that I wanted to be an artist. I began developing my photography skills throughout high school, and that was when I realized that it was actually possible turn a hobby into a career. It wasn’t until my early college years that I realized my creativity can also function as a designer.
Tell us a little about your background and how that influences you as an artist.
I was born and raised in Seattle. My parents have always encouraged and supported my artistic qualities, which propelled me to pursue my talents without hesitation. However, some of my relatives and others around me were not as understanding. Growing up, I’ve dealt with a number of mental and emotional issues that were triggered by family and peers. These issues developed into a form of anxiety for me. This anxiety has built up over the years and often shows up in my work.
When making art, I am more focused on the process. My personal connections with anxiety directly influence me to endure exhaustive projects. I’m more interested in the process of creating complex visualizations because the process of creating time-consuming projects actually help alleviate my anxiety. Nearly all of my projects concentrate on my infatuation with high complexity and meticulous details.
Solitary #1 (part of series) (2011), digital photograph
What types of conceptual concerns are present in your work? How do those relate to the specific process(es) or media you use?
My work deals with the boundaries between fine art and design. Exploring materials plays a significant role in my work. Having the additional mindset of a designer, I tend to think about what materials I can innovatively utilize in my designs. I subsequently transfer this process into my fine art practices as well. I’m constantly trying to find ways to connect art and design. For example, I would make use of design modeling processes when creating sculptures or simply create designs from a more artistic, sculptural point of view. Currently, I’m interested in utilizing 3D printing processes as an art form rather than just a prototyping service.
Cnidaria Lamp (2013), 3D printed plastic, aqua EL wire, white LED strip, 9in x 9in x 7in
We once heard Chuck Close say he did not believe in being inspired, rather in working hard everyday. What motivates you in your studio practice?
Truthfully, it takes a while to get me going on a new project! I’m the kind of person that needs to start building upon an idea immediately or else my motivation decreases quickly. However, I’m always keeping notes on any concepts that randomly come to mind on a daily basis. I can be inspired at any time, but I have to work hard at staying inspired enough to keep the creativity flowing.
What artists living or non-living influence your work?
Bruce Nauman, Tara Donovan, Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, Olafur Eliasson
When you are not making art what types of activities and interests do you engage in?
I am a huge thrill-seeker, health and fitness addict, and music enthusiast!
About
Genevieve Jaying is an interdisciplinary artist based in Seattle, WA. She is primarily a sculptor, product designer, and photographer. Her artistic endeavors began with photography, but she has since expanded her art practice into other mediums. Her work often exhibits highly complex structures and meticulous details. Exploring materials also plays a great role in her art making process. She received her BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago in December 2013, and has participated in the recent group show, the Fall BFA Thesis Exhibition, at the SAIC Sullivan Galleries. She currently lives and works in Seattle, WA.
Sand Castle Tool (2012), plywood, 12in x 9in x 8.5in
All images copyright of the artist and used with their permission.
365 Artists | 365 Days 