Revolve Gallery

Jessica Irena-Smith

Jessica is a North-East artist working in cast and kiln-formed glass. Her work is striking and diverse, yet distinctive in style, often with an element of humour to it. Colour and detail are also important features of her work.

In 2010, Jessica’s work showed at the Saatchi gallery, as one of 30 shortlisted finalists in an international art competition. In 2011, her work was shortlisted and ‘Highly Commended’ in the ‘DSWF Wildlife Artist of the Year’.

Background

Born and brought up in Newcastle Upon Tyne, Jessica now works from her studio at home in County Durham. In 2009, she graduated with a M.A. in Glass from the University of Sunderland, based at the National Glass Centre, where she previously also completed her B.A. Throughout her studies and subsequently, Jessica has competed and found success in a number of competitions and awards.

Inspiration

Much of Jessica’s inspiration comes from nature and the animal world, but other influences include her love of the Art Deco and Art Nouveau periods and the illustrators of this time, as well as Jessica’s own extensive collection of 20^th century costume jewellery.