Caroline Jane Harris

Scream are proud to present the first solo exhibition by young British artist Caroline Jane Harris. The artist explores the complexities of nature through a labour-intensive paper-cutting technique. Harris is inspired by the natural world and is conscious of the strong yet subtle links between natural life forms and us. She explores the intricacy and beauty of nature, which echo human and man-made systems, by responding to visual phenomena such as geometric, linear and circular motifs found in all levels of existence. Using photographs of tree formations as her starting point, she digitally manipulates her images through a pre-determined 'action' resulting in kaleidoscopic symmetry.

Other natural imagery is incorporated into the designs such as cross-sections of tree trunks and wood grains, which are digitally scanned. Circles and gradients suggest the cyclical nature of time and the tools through which we observe; from puddles, irises, the line of the horizon and sunsets to microscopes, telescopes and petri dishes – their essence superimposed on skeletal branch patterns. The images are computer-printed using pigment inks on archival matte paper. Each segment is cut by hand allowing for subtle distortions creating a tension between technology and the artist's intervention resulting in harmonious complexity. The final composition slowly emerges as the paper is removed exposing depths from the 2D surface. Each hand-cut digital print is placed between glass, suspended and preserved like a fragile specimen, layered both physically and metaphorically. These lattice-like compositions create depth and shadows where the lines reverberate and almost take on a life of their own, beyond the picture plane.

The unique hybrid process of technology and craftsmanship not only informs her work but is integral to Harris' practice. It is slow and obsessive, requiring concentration, repetition and discipline hailing to traditional techniques. The meditative quality of the work is reflected in Harris' interest in artistic and devotional practices of Eastern Cultures. The symmetry in each piece is juxtaposed with an undercurrent of chaos as the hand-cut elements create imperfections – a reminder of nature’s imperfections.

Having graduated from Camberwell College of Art, London and a Fine Art Printmaking degree at the University of Brighton in 2009, Harris has already exhibited in the UK, India, Singapore and Switzerland. In 2013 Harris was selected as a finalist for the Aesthetica Art Prize and is the winner of the Chelsea Arts Club Trust Stan Smith Award. Harris’ work was selected for the 2014 MTV Re:Define Charity Auction at Dallas Contemporary in association with The Future Tense and The Goss-Michael Foundation in the US.