Leah Jensen

Leah uses ceramics as a canvas, as a surface on which to explore ideas surrounding mathematics and art. Deconstructing Renaissance paintings to their fundamental elements, unearthing hidden geometric structures that reside beneath the surface. She carves each vessel by hand with an aim to increase the complexity and precision of detail to appear mechanically manufactured.  She calls this aesthetic ‘anti-digital’. The patterns derived from each painting are determined by significant points in the image, which are mapped onto the surface of the vessels using pins and paper. The holes left behind dictate where the artist carves, generating an added challenge by creating irregular intervals in the surfaces. 

Leah combines materials in order to produce the highest possible contrast in colour and texture: clean, smooth, white porcelain against dark, burnt wood; grogged clay partially covered by a glassy shell. Juxtaposed to toy with the idea of producing a subtle feeling of discomfort in the viewer. Carving each vessel by hand is a very slow and meditative process that allows space for reflection. Once the vessel is complete the narrative is hidden, just as the structure of the painting before it. 

Leah obtained a BA (HONS) Contemporary Crafts in 2014 from Falmouth University.  A year later she was selected to be part of the Craft Council’s Hot House Programme.  Leah has exhibited widely and internationally since graduating including Contemporary Living: Art, Craft & Design at Christie’s, South Kensington, London and British Craft: The Miami Edit at Miami Beach, Florida.

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