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Jan Latusek
Artwork for Jan Latusek
Details
How would you describe the work you do and why?
After a career in architecture and construction (and six years as a rural postie) I continue working with building materials but from an art perspective. I carve salvaged Victorian/Edwardian bricks. (see greenling.yolasite.com ). I also work with wood from demolished buildings, broken furniture, and from branches brought down in storms. Sometimes using plaster and concrete to link incongruous pairings. I endeavour to feature the natural characteristics of each material including weathered textures, distortions, and what some might regard as flaws but which I think of as evidence of a life lived. Mostly 3-dimensional sculptures, carvings and assemblages, but also a few mixed-media wall-hung pieces.
For you what does being an artist mean?:
I think of art as creativity that generates emotion. Be that an appreciative nod, or a critic's hostile scowl(!) or just my own contentment. I particularly enjoy giving a new life to materials that were discarded. Bricks for example can last for thousands of years - it saddens me to see good quality ones crushed as hardcore or dumped as landfill. My art is partly a matter of defiance! Of refusing to succumb. Protecting my soul and displaying some tiny part of it in each creation. Every day I am inspired anew. At 78 will I ever get to execute half of what's in my head? Probably not! I prioritise whatever cheers my spirit, rather than what sells best. If someone likes my work enough to buy it, that 's great; but if they don't, I am happy to keep it all.
Describe what you call yourself/your practice?:
Jan Latusek. Carver. Based in Leominster.
Your practice & activities include e.g workshops, teaching:
I carve or assemble found materials; mainly bricks and wood - sometimes iron. I'm a scavenger!
CV & Education, relevant & leading to your artistic practice:
Autodidactic. I am grateful to everyone who has provided me with inspiration and feedback along the way.
Exhibitions in the last 3 years:
Ad hoc events.
Your gallery outlets/stockists:
Various, in small selections.