10/25/2019
Our childhoods can be a roller coaster of emotions and experiences. Empowered by stimuli and changes, both cognitive and physical, these times can have a lasting impact on all of us. Tapping into this nostalgia, we have Melbourne based artist Jess Merlo (). Referencing childhood milieus, her work consists of environmental references like sand from the beach she visited and social ones like toys and forms unique to her childhood. A Fine Art graduate from Monash University (), Jess is an emerging contemporary painter and sculptor that works in the tradition of organic abstraction. Using non-conventional materials and techniques, she paves a path to unique and personal results.
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Q) Since your work has such an organic theme running across is, what are your thoughts on plastic pollution and the impact it has on our oceans?
A) It’s so upsetting and disappointing to see the detrimental effect plastic pollution has on the ocean due to our careless actions. Personally, I try to do my part and cut plastic out in my life, and I encourage the people around me to do the same. I do plan to take another step in helping diminish the impact.
Q) What is the art scene like in Melbourne?
A) Melbourne has a very contemporary and experimental art scene I believe. It’s pretty exciting going to openings at galleries all over the city every week and seeing fresh works, meet new artists and other people within the field.
Q) Do you think society should do more to encourage the inner child among us all?
A) Sometimes I think that people take themselves too seriously and they need to loosen up a little bit and seeing an adult who brings out a playful side is quite refreshing and intriguing.
Interview originally published in CreativPaper issue thirteen.
