Biographical Information:
Jo Mann was born and raised in Bristol, England and received a diploma in Art, Media and Design, and a BA (hons) in Ceramics from the University of the West of England.

She lived in Denver, Colorado for 4 years, and traveled throughout the southwest of the US, discovering the vast and striking landscapes that reflect in her work still today.

Jo creates abstract landscape paintings on hand-made fabric paper. Beginning with a base of canvas, she builds up layers of paper, fabric and found materials along with stitched detail to craft a surface on which to apply acrylic paints and glazing medium.

The result is a contemplative study of landscape, with references to the ocean, land and sky through vibrant colors and structural simplicity. The layering of the materials lends the pieces a dense, tactile appearance with a subtle archaic quality.

Jo has lived in Pasadena, CA for the past 7 years.

Artist Statement:
When I am creating, the silence drowns out the noise and I can feel rather than think. I look for that innate rightness, that surge of energy in a picture. Then I know I am done.

My work reflects the longing for balance, and the search for substance and simplicity; all common themes for people living in today’s society. The un-peopled landscapes evoke the desire for solitude and escape, and the need to return to nature.

Robert Henri once said, ” All any man can hope to do is to add his fragment to the whole” My artwork is what I have to contribute.

Group Exhibitions:
Pasadena ArtWalk 2011

Collections:
Private collections in UK and US

Affiliations:
Pasadena Society of Artists

Education
Diploma in Art, Media & Design – Bristol, UK
BA (hons) Ceramics – Bristol, UK