The Space Between

About

The Space Between is an exhibition by Bristol-based artists Jemma Grundon and Jessica Bartlett. It is an exhibition that explores ideas of transitional space and impermanence, as the artists attempt to find sensitive ways in which to capture a moment in time, and explain the aesthetic beauty of memory.

Grundon and Bartlett studied Fine Art together, at Bath Spa University. They have discovered over the years that an underlying association with nature and an interest in its ephemeral state connects their work. Often, this work is informed by Japanese philosophy & aesthetic – the notion of ‘mono no aware’ and ‘wabi sabi’ are common and inter-linking themes. The exhibition title is also a reference to a stage in their career as artists – both having completing MA’s in the last few years, they find themselves at a transitional stage with their work. This exhibition will be a test-space – a place to connect and expand their ideas through the production of new work.

Through glass engraving and pyrography Bartlett’s work seeks to explore form, as it evolves from, or into nothingness. Often drawing from memory, photographs and found objects, the burnt or etched mark becomes a metaphor for memory. Her work aims to capture a sense of place or a moment in time and, in turn, convey the intensity of contemplation. Working with paint and resin, Grundon’s work is inspired by transient and ephemeral encounters; a momentary dialogue with a stranger, bubbles being blown, a shaft of sunlight bursting through the gap in the curtains. The re-occurring image of the cloud becomes a meaningful signifier for an on-going interest in an aesthetic sensitivity towards the ephemeral. With this melancholic sensibility, also comes an appreciation of witnessing such a fleeting, temporal occurrence.

The exhibition is supported by a sound installation by musician and composer Jim Cornick, and with written text by art-writer Gemma Brace.