Jodee Knowles Interview
The past, present and future are all the exact same thing.
Jodee Knowles has an exhibition coming up at Blank Space in Surry Hills this Friday. Called 'One Flesh', this new body of work is inspired by religion and the artist's imagining of the ultimate god, amalgamating symbology and ideas from different belief systems. 'One Flesh' is Jodee's last solo show locally before she leaves for LA this November for her curated debut show. We caught up with her ahead of the exhibition.
Ingrid Kesa: What did you draw when you were a kid?
Jodee Knowles: I first understood the meaning of "If you want it done well, do it yourself" when I asked my mum to draw me a horse for school. It looked more like a heaving human so I dedicated myself a whole day to draw the horse I wanted. From there I drew everything and anything, drawing people only came when I found my style of work.
When do you most feel like painting?
After an exhibition it takes me a few months before I can draw again. I need to have a strong concept in my mind, I can't just draw for the sake of drawing. Most of the time my glass is half empty so this generally helps for getting emotions out on paper.
The invite for your show at Blank Space says you play 'God' in this new exhibition. What would you do if you were actually God for a day?
I would remove sex and religion and see how productive our little human race gets.
Are you a religious person? How did researching for this body of work challenge/expand your ideas on religion?
I am not a religious person but I became very intrigued with old ceremonies and sacrifices within belief systems and tried to place these ancient ways in today's society. The end result of the works actually resembles nothing of religion but more so of birth, growing and at what point you realise you are an adult, if ever. And coming to understand time and how the past, present and future are all the exact same thing.
Have you been to the USA before?
Yes, I've aimed to go twice a year for the last five years for group shows and curating exhibitions.
How did you get involved with the show US show in November?
I pitched an idea to a gallery I had worked with several times before and they really loved the idea. I'm heading over to work with Malcolm Ford (Harrison Ford's son) on the music for an installation and to meet with gallery owners regarding budget, artists and dates...
What is currently inspiring you?
Time.
Jodee Knowles' 'One Flesh' exhibition opens this Friday March 10 from 4–6pm at Blank Space Gallery, 374 Crown St, Surry Hills.
www.jodeeknowles.com
www.blankspace.com.au
Sophie Bosch
