One could say the creative talents of Western Australian Artist Jessyjo Darling, are inherent in her DNA. The granddaughter of local artist Jo Muir, Darling was immersed in the artworld from a young age, this early engagement with artworks and artists inspiring her creative path and leading to Darling’s current practice.
Presently living in the United States but frequently returning to visit with family, friends and reconnect with home, I recently met up with Darling acquainting myself with her practice and works. I was immediately struck by Darling’s warmth, sincerity and openness, feeling an instant connection to the artist’s integrity of practice and recognising her deep ties to the works she produces.
Working with earth pigment, part of Darling’s practice involves sourcing rocks and organic materials from sites resonating with herself or of specific importance to audiences commissioning her works. The artist grinds the recovered materials and mixes with gesso to produce the paint she then works with. Darling’s practice provides an extraordinary link to the ancestry of the land with which Darling works and gives the artworks a depth of being, soul and energy I have never encountered in an artwork.
Darling’s practice is intentional as she is careful to ensure the materials she gathers are used respectfully, without waste, demonstrating a thoughtful collaboration with nature. Her process dissolves any ill-conceived hierarchies between humans and nature and echoes the respect, honour, and gratitude present in her creative process. These qualities translate in her works and is felt in her presence as I speak to her through our meeting. She is an artist that communicates beyond the brushstroke, connecting her audience to millions of years of history and projecting the balance and harmony that can exist between humans and nature.
I am looking forward to watching her practice evolve over the coming years as she explores and immerses herself in extraordinary sites around the world.
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