Caroline Jane Harris, Anatomy of the Arboreal, Scream, London

Young British artist Caroline Jane Harris, finalist for the 2013 Aesthetica Art Prize, presents her first solo exhibition at Scream in London. Featuring a intricate, detailed and labour-intensive papercutting technique, Harris’ work is inspired by the natural world and the links between natural life forms and man-made systems.

Responding to visual phenomena such as geometric, linear and circular motifs that are found in all levels of existence and using photographs of tree formations as a starting point, Harris digitally manipulates her images to result in a kaleidoscopic symmetry.

Circles and gradients suggest the cyclical nature of time and other natural imagery is scanned into the designs including wood grains, the line of the horizon, sunsets and more. Merging sophisticated computer imaging with laborious hand-cutting, Harris creates a tension between technology and artistic intervention. As the paper is removed, depths are exposed and each hand-cut digital print is suspended and layered between glass like a fragile specimen. This complex process results in lattice-like compositions that celebrate depth and shadow.

Requiring a concentration and discipline that harks to more traditional, meditative techniques, Harris’ process evokes her interest in the devotional practices of Eastern cultures. The symmetry of each piece is juxtaposed with an undercurrent of chaos as the hand-cut elements create imperfections that echo the imperfections found in nature.

Having graduated from Camberwell College of Art, London and a Fine Art Printmaking degree at the University of Brighton in 2009, Harris has already exhibited in the UK, India, Singapore and Switzerland but this is her first solo presentation.

Caroline Jane Harris, Anatomy of the Arboreal, until 2 August, Scream, 27—28 Eastcastle Street, London, W1W 8DH, www.screamlondon.com.

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Credit:
1. Caroline Jane Harris – Echo (2014) Hand – cut layered pigment prints on paper 103 x 103 x 7 cm (40.5 x 40.5 x 2.7″)

Posted on 23 July 2014

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