Jess Self

Withness

Journaled letters to men, wax, metal, textiles, wool

“My sculptures are made from my own life casts. They are embedded with or covered in wax, wool, wood, or mixed textiles. I am inspired by the inclusion of archetypes (such as the lover, teacher, old crone, and warrior) in folklore, mythology, Western classical art as well as in spiritual practices. Where do these intersect, and why are they used? For example, in Hindu and Buddhist practices, chakras are a way to illustrate growth and highlight what areas of life can be improved upon. These stages have their own characteristics and archetypes. Swiss psychologist Carl Jung believed archetypes are embedded in our brains; we collectively and unconsciously experience and feel similar things, creating a connection. I strive to make an emotional connection with the viewer by creating figures based on my own life story as they relate to archetypes I have embodied.”

— Jess Self

About the artist

Jess Self

Jess Self completed her MFA at Georgia State University. She is a recipient of the prestigious Elizabeth Greenshields Foundation Award and was a 2022 Hudgens Prize nominee. Self primarily makes figurative sculptures and loves to incorporate textiles, mysticism, and cultural content. Much of her early work, made completely of needle-felted wool, touched on themes of trauma and abuse; this work has been exhibited multiple times and has received positive reviews in publications such as Create Magazine, Fiber Art Now, and Emergency Index. How we build emotional bonds with each other is one of her central concerns. In addition to making exhibition work, she enjoys teaching workshops and participating in craft shows.