Janine Partington: Maker in Focus

About

Enamelling is the art of fusing glass onto metal. Janine's work is created mainly using the technique of dusting powdered vitreous enamel over hand-cut stencils onto copper then fired at a temperature of 800°C.  As the metal cools the true colours of the panel emerge. It takes multiple short firings to create a finished piece of work, and whilst her years of experience in mastering her skill can shape the outcome, so much of enamelling and the final artwork are left to the mercy of the material itself.

The New Ashgate Gallery is pleased to present Janine’s new collection of hand carved leather; a bold new direction for Janine as a part of her recent MA studies which we’re delighted to show.

Janine takes inspiration from the shape of things around her. In particular she is inspired by trees, flowers, leaves and seed heads, their inherently graphic lines and shapes within. Exploiting the sensitive relationship between the copper and enamel is at the heart of her work. Janine is constantly playing with the materials, seeing where they can take her.

Enamel is a versatile, durable, strong and impervious material which is well-suited for every room in the home or workspace from kitchen to bathroom, from washroom to boardroom. The inherent qualities of the enamel, its sheen and interplay with light bring something new and very tactile into a living space.