One of the greatest joys of a gallery such as the Malthouse, is the chance to create opportunity for emerging artistic talent - and to mark for the start of the formal Arts Programme in 2025, we are absolutely thrilled to be welcoming Jess Hollis to the space whose talent to us is absolutely undeniable.
At the first moment of sharing her work with us, Jess’ mastery of her craft was evident and we have been intrigued - but not surprised - to learn how artistry has always been embedded in her life. Jess tells us “living in the semi-rural landscapes of East Devon, where farmlands meet the Jurassic coastline, I am surrounded by nature’s quiet wonders. My small garden studio is filled with hedgerow flowers and curious objects gathered on walks, while the view through the windows reveals the changing seasons unfolding across the meadowed wetlands and riverbanks swollen with rain. This ever changing environment is at the heart of my photography, it inspires a sense of stillness and reverence in every frame.
I began my journey into photography five years ago, drawn to the beauty of the environment right on my doorstep. Having grown up home-schooled, I had always immersed myself in creative pursuits, influenced by the craftsmanship of my father, a carpenter, and a potter I once worked for. These hands-on arts instilled in me an appreciation for texture, detail, and light, qualities that now guide my exploration of botany’s complexities and its meandering, yet precise, forms.
Through my work, I aim to create a space for stillness, encouraging viewers to pause and appreciate the exquisite details and grace of the natural world - a beauty that is often overlooked but is deeply worth celebrating.”
Throughout this exhibition, Jess aims to invite viewers to pause and connect with the intricate beauty of botanicals. Her aim is to showcase the details that are often overlooked, textures, patterns, and the subtle play of light, creating a moment of stillness and reflection. By blending ultra-realistic photography with artistic expression, the intention is to want people to question what they see: is it photographed or painted? Through these images, Jess aspires to create an appreciation for nature’s simplicity and inspire conversations about its preservation and timeless beauty. We’re sure you will succeed on all levels Jess and we’re excited to see your exhibition unfold.
