Artist Statement

Repetition, process and multiples are the main components I use in my practice to investigate various uses and interpretations of space. As someone who has to get creative with the small space I live and work in, I found inspiration in the ingenuity of infestations such as beehives, deposits, and nests. Similar to these natural formations, I create work modularly by continuously making intricate repetitive pieces that can be built onto endlessly and able to adapt to any available space. 

I frequently gravitate towards building my artwork into commonly unused spaces and onto discarded objects, repurposing them as a space for artwork to flourish. Living in Toronto I find we are uniquely aware of space and of its rarity, value, and opportunity and attempt to convey the potential of every crack and crevice. In my practice I use a variety of natural, recycled, homemade and found materials, allowing each new series as an opportunity for material research and exploration, while being mindful of their environmental impact.

Bio

Jes is a non-binary educator and mixed media sculpture artist based in Toronto, Canada. Their practice investigates alternative uses of space inspired by infestations and repetitive natural patterns. They practice fluidity within all things. 

Young received their Masters of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honours, and Bachelor of Education from York University. They have held a guest artist position at York University and has exhibited in multiple shows in Toronto such as Something Creative’s Bi Bi Baby Showcases (2022), Nuit Blanche Toronto (2022), The Artist Project Toronto (2023), and The Gladstone House Artist Residency (2023), and internationally at PADA Residency in Barreiro, Portugal (2023), and Gracía in Antigua, Guatemala (2023). Alongside continuing to develop their artistic practice they are currently working as a Fabricator for local Toronto artists.