By Your Love I Live and Die
Garment courtesy of TANJA HALB
Celestial Body of the Cosmos
Garment courtesy of DASHA FELD
Jase King, a Melbourne-born and Paris-based artist, creates an enchanting world full of reflection and self-discovery. Thought-provoking and mystifyingly unique, his artistic approach unveils the stories behind the captivating face sculptures. As Art Miami at Aqua Art approaches, Jase King shares some insights on his journey and new art pieces.
hube: Your artistic journey is undoubtedly unique and layered with discussions about the duality of human nature. Could you take us back to a pivotal moment or experience that ignited your passion for art and set you on this creative path?
Jase King: If I were to rewind to that pivotal moment that set me on this creative path, it doesn’t unfold within the walls of an art gallery, but rather in a very unassuming and natural way. I find that my passion for art wasn’t sparked by external influences — it emerged as a calling and an innate desire that originated from within. It was a profound sense of internal inspiration and an inherent connection to the world of artistic expression. It wasn’t a choice; it was a recognition of a part of myself that sought to communicate, explore, and understand the complexities of human nature through the language of art.
h: The concept of face sculptures in your recent project is fascinating. How do you see the role of art in reflecting and responding to the collective experiences of our time?
JK: The role of art in reflecting and responding to the collective experiences of our time is paramount as it has a historical role in documenting the zeitgeist of an era, serving as a mirror to societal shifts, challenges, and triumphs. In the context of face sculptures, this medium becomes a vessel for capturing and expressing the shared narratives of the present.
h: Each piece of your face sculpture collection represents the ebbs and flows of your mind during confinement. How do you balance the personal and universal aspects of your art to create pieces that resonate broadly?
JK: It is a delicate yet intentional process. My aim was to create pieces that not only reflect my personal experiences but also resonate broadly, inviting all to connect with the universal themes embedded in the stories. Each sculpture is a snapshot of my journey, capturing the nuances of introspection, emotions, and self-discovery. I weave universal themes into the narratives that include emotions such as resilience, vulnerability, hope, or the shared human experience of navigating challenges and confinement. The deliberate choice to up-cycle hair from party wigs into my sculptures at that moment in history was a symbolic decision, reflecting a deep intention to immortalize the human essence. Hair, being a material that doesn’t decompose after death, serves as a poignant symbol. It acts as a reflection on the transience of life and the enduring legacy of the human spirit.
h: Your masks seem to be pushing boundaries of “the common unconsciousness” and focus on transmitting individuals’ stories by pursuing change. How does the element of theatrics play a role in the presentation of these masks, and what emotions or reactions are you aiming to evoke from the audience?
JK: In the realm of my masks, I intentionally strive to push the boundaries of what I call “the common unconsciousness,” seeking to unveil and transmit the intricate stories held within each individual. The element of theatrics in the presentation of these masks is a deliberate choice, serving as a vehicle to amplify the narratives they carry. The incorporation of mirrored acrylic frames in some of my pieces serves as more than just a structural choice—it’s a deliberate decision that transforms the sculptures into portals of reflection. These frames, acting as captivating windows into another dimension, invite viewers to engage not only with the artwork itself but also with their own reflections. Theatrics, in this context, isn’t just about performance; it’s about creating a multi-sensory experience that captivates and engages the audience. The masks, when presented theatrically, transcend mere artefacts; they become characters in a larger narrative, each with its own plot and emotional arc.
In my artistic endeavours, I strive to create an emotional journey, weaving together elements of curiosity and wonder, provocation and reflection. My primary goal is to elicit a range of emotions and responses from those who encounter my work.
The essence of curiosity and wonder is foundational in my approach. I want viewers to be drawn into a realm where each piece becomes a source of fascination, sparking a sense of inquiry and imagination. It’s about cultivating an environment that encourages exploration and contemplation. Provocation and reflection are crucial elements, as I aim to prompt thought and introspection. My art serves as a mirror, inviting individuals to delve into their own emotions and experiences, fostering a personal connection with the narratives embedded in each piece. Above all, my deepest aspiration is to evoke empathy, connection, and a shared understanding of the diverse human experiences encapsulated in each creation. By delving into the complexities of the human journey, my art becomes a universal language that transcends boundaries, fostering a sense of unity and shared humanity. In essence, my artistic mission is to craft more than just visual experiences; I aim to sculpt moments of connection, contemplation, and joy that resonate with the shared spirit of being human.
h: Your work often involves wearable art, blurring the lines between art and fashion. How do you see the intersection of these two realms evolving in the future, and what possibilities do you envision for artists working in this space?
JK: The distinction between art and fashion is a nuanced dance, each with its own unique rhythm and purpose. As an artist delving into the creation of face sculptures, I intentionally avoided categorising them, allowing them to exist as portals into my innermost thoughts, each with its own untold story and secret.
During the pandemic, as I upcycled materials found in my home to breathe life into these sculptures, the art world recognised a revolutionary spirit — a bold, unapologetic continuation of creative expression amidst challenging times. It was a moment in the mind of an artist, a sort of rebellious nod saying, “I’ll create, no matter the circumstances.” On the other hand, the fashion world, in the midst of a dearth of groundbreaking trends, found in these sculptures an element of aspiration and fantasy. They became a breath of fresh air during a time when fashion was searching for new avenues of expression.
The concept of wearable art isn’t novel, but what makes it truly powerful is the earnestness and authenticity infused into each piece. For those working in this niche space, the art takes precedence, and the fact that it’s wearable becomes a delightful bonus. Art, as a beast, remains untamed by trends, while fashion, as a business, adapts to the whims of buyers at specific times. Recognising the distinction between the art and fashion realms, and understanding their unique clients and business models, lays the foundation for navigating this blended space. It’s about embracing the authenticity of the work, letting it speak its truth, and allowing the convergence of art and fashion to open up new realms of creative exploration, free from the constraints of trends. In this space, where innovation and authenticity intertwine, the potential for limitless creativity knows no bounds.
h: With Art Miami just around the corner, how do you feel about presenting your work at such a renowned art event? What do you hope viewers will take away from experiencing your pieces in person?
JK: In the realm of laughter and whimsy, my artwork beckons you to a playfully titled world. Swallow My Love, for example, invites a mischievous grin with its dual nature. The title, a sly nod to pop culture’s playful inquiries, might just prompt a chuckle, inviting viewers to ponder.
Then there’s the whimsy of the modern alchemist in me, concocting artistic brews that dance outside the canvas norm. The titles themselves might tickle your fancy, steering clear of the traditional with a touch of irreverence and a dash of intrigue. Picture this — among a sea of canvas paintings, my collection at Art Miami fairs stands out precisely because there’s not a single drop of paint. It’s not a slight to the traditional; after all, I play with those mediums too. It’s more like a wink, a gentle nudge to collectors to do a double take and let curiosity be their guide.
In a museum, my work might find its place in a retrospective ambience, seamlessly blending in. But in the lively context of Art Miami fairs at Aqua Arts, I aim to stir minds, to elicit that delightful gasp or a knowing smile. So, go ahead, huff and puff if you will, but perhaps, just perhaps, my unconventional approach will leave you with a grin and a new perspective on what art can be. After all, in the world of creativity, a little laughter and a lot of curiosity go a long way.
Cum in My Heart
h: The titles of your works often carry symbolic weight. Can you delve into the significance of names such as Swallow My Love and The Modern Alchemist and how they connect to the broader narrative of your art?
JK: In my creations, the duality is a captivating element that invites viewers to interpret it through their own lenses. Swallow My Love stands out as a vibrant red piece that plays with perception — it shields the eyes of the face but reveals the mouth when worn. The title carries a subtle sexual innuendo, a nod to pop culture’s playful question “Do you swallow or duck?” Yet, on the flip side, it emerges as one of my most romantic pieces. Adorned with cascading tassels and sparkling stones in the passionate hue of red, the artwork resembles an anatomical heart, yearning to be adored. The question lingers: which side of the coin does one choose to view?
In my artistic journey, I embrace the metaphorical sense of being a modern alchemist. Much like the historical concept of alchemy, I engage in transformative processes, blending elements from diverse disciplines — science, art, and philosophy — to craft something novel and valuable. This alchemical approach extends beyond technology turning base metals into gold; it delves into personal development, intertwining various philosophies and practices for profound self-transformation. On a personal level, it’s my private dialogue with the divine source — an exploration of spiritual realms and ancient wisdom in pursuit of inner transformation and enlightenment.
The intricate details of The Modern Alchemist, such as long cascading tassels around the beard and head area, symbolize hair, carrying diverse meanings across cultures. While some cultures view it as a symbol of power or protection, for me, it embodies the rebellion of non-conformity and the challenge against established cultural expectations. Each strand tells a story, and in the tapestry of interpretations, my art becomes a reflection of personal defiance and a celebration of individuality.
h: As the realms of art and fashion undergo constant transformations, an array of novel concepts emerges in the realm of craftsmanship. How do you plan on connecting with the future and creating a pathway towards a redefined reality, all the while adhering to your vision of conveying the stillness in the present?
JK: Embracing the dynamic nature of art and fashion while staying true to the essence of conveying stillness in the present is a journey that excites and motivates me. I’m deeply passionate about leveraging digital presence and virtual reality to craft interactive narratives that transcend traditional boundaries. Currently, I’m actively spearheading the future by fostering collaborations with artists, designers, and technologists from diverse disciplines. The cross-pollination of ideas in these collaborations has become a cornerstone of my creative process, leading to innovative creations that bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and futuristic concepts.
In this fast-paced environment, I find my authenticity by combining a forward-thinking approach with a commitment to staying true to my artistic essence. The utilisation of technology and immersive experiences doesn’t compromise the stillness I aim to convey in the present; instead, it enhances the depth and reach of my work. My hope is that this intentional blend of innovation and authenticity will transcend temporal boundaries, creating a lasting impact in the ever-evolving worlds of art and fashion. As I navigate this exciting journey, I find fulfilment in pushing the creative boundaries while remaining anchored in my artistic identity.
Interstellar
How the Universe Came to Be
Talent: ADELINE LO PICCOLO & JASE KING
Photography courtesy of MARCO TASSINI
