In Conversation with Jemma Jamie
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Bursting with captivating creatures, fauna and pattern, Jemma’s work is certainly a colourful celebration of the world around us. Through charming gouache studies, Jemma captures her life and travels, giving us an insight into the little things that have sparked joy along the way. A unique style shines through in her work, bringing an element of the surreal into her illustration techniques. From foxes taking center stage at the theatre to a playful interpretation of Ancient Greek vases, the artist manages to inject a little bit of fun into every subject. It was a pleasure to chat to Jemma and talk to her about this vibrant body of work.
Why do you paint?
That is very broad. I think it’s just that I have always painted. There’s a video of me when I was about two where I first picked up a paintbrush, it was a gift from my grandparents, and I kind of just drew this straight line and my Grandad was like ‘She’s going to be a painter!’ So I really have always painted. I can’t imagine not doing it.
What is most important to you in your practice?
I’ve worked in TV and I also produce books so I really like my images to have a sense story. Even if it’s in a still life where things are positioned to show a relationship with each other - I just like to have a sense of narrative even if it's not at the forefront of what’s going on
Who is your biggest artistic influence?
I actually really like what you do as a company, I really love that - I love looking at vintage artwork and old artwork that isn’t necessarily a person that's known but it’s a piece that’s really inspiring. I like willow china and bits of textiles and tapestry.
You do quite a few art markets too, how are you finding those?
I’ve been doing markets and workshops all over. Going and talking to adults is really nice - I love chatting with the other makers that are there. There’s so much creative stuff going on so it’s nice to slink off to look at what everyone else is doing.
You mentioned working in TV - any sets that we would know?
My biggest TV job was working for Steve McQueen - so for ‘Small Acts’ I painted the picture book. I painted some manuscripts for ‘The Winter’. I’ve done things for lots of Hallmark Christmas films!
Are you still doing any set design now?
So I have a toddler - a job in itself. - So I’m pretty much painting full time now - I did a picture book last year and I’m working on fine art too.
We noticed some of you work is inspired by your time living in Canada, how long have you been back in the UK?
We’ve been back for nine months and it's been great - for two reasons really - firstly being back near family is like gold dust, its incredible and having my son open up to that is amazing - and secondly I find the UK really inspiring as an artist. Living in Vancouver was great, it was so beautiful - but in some ways it was like living in a Bob Ross painting - there's big trees, lovely sunsets. It’s really nice to be in crystal lakes and see bears (although quite scary) but there's something about a rolling British landscape that I just adore. The solid seasons and clouds inspire me. My colour palette will change depending on the season and the subject matters change depending on it too.
Favourite artistic movement in history?
Tricky one! I’d go for the Pre-Raphaelites - I’ve always been obsessed with Waterhouse’s Ophelia painting. I love William Morris, the patterns and tiles from that era are so good. I think it comes from growing up in the 90’s. My parents had the strawberry thief placemats and we had a very red William Worris-esq sofa. Designs like that are something I missed while living in the states.
Any advice for aspiring artists?
I would just say do the work. Listen and don’t listen and do the work!
What does your dream studio look like?
I think about this quite a lot! My dream studio would be in my garden. I’d like to be by the coast, lots of light - lots of shelves. Old plan chests and antiques and things that inspire me. A place to write and a place to paint but light and open air are the most important things. I used to work at my desk in Vancouver and that was quite dreamy because our house felt like a tree house at certain times of the year. At the moment I’m in my kitchen.
