Jan Brown
Jan Brown is an Australian artist known for her intricately woven copper wire sculptures. Her practice is deeply connected to the landscapes she inhabits and explores. Originally trained in ceramics at TAFE Southbank and Architectural Ceramics at TAFE Eagle Farm in Queensland, Jan exhibited widely and received numerous awards for her ceramic work from 1990 onward, with pieces held in public and private collections both in Australia and internationally.
In 2010, Jan transitioned from ceramics to metal weaving, a shift inspired by her travels and a desire for greater mobility and simplicity in her practice. This evolution opened new creative pathways, leading to sculptural works in lighting and wall art. Her work is currently represented in galleries across Canberra, Brisbane and Mt Tamborine, Queensland.
What sparked the idea for the work you are exhibiting at SWELL this year?
Seeing the beautiful chrysalis delicately hanging below a leaf outside a cafe at Snapper Rocks and the look of joy and wonder on kids faces. Just a beauty to behold. The markings on the chrysalis, how they transform and emerge. A cocoon is also similar and instead of silk I use wire to transform a piece
What’s something people might not realise about the process behind your work?
There is approximately 400 to 500 metres of copper wire in each piece. Work is hand woven with no mechanical tools involved. My hands are my tools
What role does location or environment play in your sculptures?
The environment plays a large part in giving these pieces their own ‘patina’ it evolves in the environment in which it is placed. They have already been placed in the ocean to begin their colour transformation. They sway in the sea breeze as they hang delicately under the tree
What keeps you coming back to sculpture as a form of expression?
I love working with my hands. My beach walks are always an inspiration and using copper wire I can make wherever I am.
Come and see for yourself at SWELL Sculpture Festival, Pacific Parade, Currumbin 12th – 21st September.