Jessica Sadlier
Pivot & Flow
materials funded: metal stock, butane torch, soldering tools, jeweler’s saw, textiles
When I start work on a new piece of art, I usually have an idea of what the finished product will be like, but since I incorporate a lot of found or repurposed materials in my work, I find that I need to adjust my vision as I work. Rather than trying to fight whatever conditions arise, I PIVOT & FLOW in a new direction. This body of work exemplifies that process and also incorporates my interpretation of these two words both physically and conceptually.
My inspiration for this project came from aerial photos of rivers formed from melting glaciers and agricultural plots formed via central pivot sprinkler systems. These two topographies are very different in form but both are the result of manipulation of the landscape. When I work with a medium or material, I explore its intrinsic properties and then try to manipulate it to behave in ways that it is not inclined to behave. I have been working mostly with textiles and fibers but have become intrigued by the materials and techniques of metalsmithing and jewelry-making, and how metals might be used in conjunction with my current repertoire of "soft" materials. By juxtaposing hard and soft, I try to create compositions that behave unexpectedly. I craft fluid forms from metal and constrain loose fibers and textiles into rigid shapes.
About the artist
Jessica is a multi-disciplinary designer and artist with an extensive history of creative projects and pursuits. She has worked in a variety of disciplines including architecture, design tech, and theater design (props, sets and costumes), and has extensive experience in fiber arts and sewing, both garment and craft. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Art and Design from MIT and her Master of Architecture degree from UC Berkeley.
Jessica loves to combine various media and techniques to create interesting projects ranging from functional decor to wearable tech. She relishes the challenges and thrills of learning new skills and enjoys sharing this experience with others through classes and workshops.
When she picks up something like a piece of scrap wood, she sees more than just the shape before her. She sees what it could be, what it might become, and that is what she enjoys about the artistic process. She challenges her audience to look beyond the individual components and common materials to see the overall composition as a dynamic system.
