What looks like a delicate mosaic of colour and texture is, in fact, a deeply personal exploration of cancer at the microscopic level.
Her intricate works are composed of thousands of hand-cut paper fragments, each piece individually painted with watercolours. This meticulous process mirrors the emotional intensity of her subject matter, while offering a meditative space for reflection.
Jess’ final-year project was shaped by her personal experiences surrounding cancer, reflecting both the emotional and physical complexities of the disease. Jess said: “Just before my final year of university my mum was unexpectedly diagnosed with breast cancer.
“From going to appointments and doing further research into the disease, I wanted to raise more awareness for not only breast cancer, but cancer in general. I hadn’t seen many artists using fine art as a way of talking about this disease.”
Her body of work titled ‘Histopathology’, represents cancer at a microscopic level through abstracted histopathological imagery. By transforming medical imagery into a visualisation of colour, texture and materiality, the project invites viewers to engage closely with something hidden and often difficult to confront.
Jess commented: “Most visitors who came to the exhibition would look at my work and think how pretty and detailed the colours and compositions are. This is until they read my book or information plaque and their engagement with the work completely shifts.
“As soon as viewers see the work represents cancer, it becomes complex and carries such a powerful confrontation with fragility and illness.”
Inspired by her personal experience and those of her loved ones, Jess plans to pursue a master’s degree in radiography after graduation, aiming to become a qualified practitioner. While continuing to create and exhibit her artwork, Jess hopes her future practice will be enriched by her medical training, using both disciplines to raise awareness and foster understanding around illness and disease.
Students from the School of Design and Creative Arts (SDCA) showcased their final projects in a physical exhibition on campus from 14-18 June. The Degree Show is a fantastic showcase of the hard work, innovation, and creativity of our graduating students. See Jess’ project on the Degree Show website.