We have been delighted to see the work of BA (Hons) Carving: Woodcarving and Gilding alumna Jo Grogan, completed during her ongoing residency at the Sarabande Foundation, recently featured across the press, including Harper’s Bazaar, the Evening Standard and Mayfair LDN.
Jo, who became an artist-in-residence at the Sarabande Foundation shortly after her completing her studies at City & Guilds of London Art School, shared:
“Since graduating from Art School, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to be an artist-in-residence at the Sarabande Foundation, established by Lee Alexander McQueen. This experience has not only helped me develop a clear creative direction but also made me part of a vibrant and supportive artistic community. Over the past year, I’ve participated in two group shows at the foundation, alongside various talks and events, including the recent House of Bandits pop-up at 5 Carlos Place. I’m thrilled to continue my residency for another year, with some exciting events already lined up for the new year.”
‘Best Chair’, Lime wood, gypsum, ceramic, 2024.
“‘Best Chair’ is a sculptural piece hand crafted from plaster and covered with a mosaic of replica Delftware ceramics, evoking the distinctive and ornate form of a 17th-century Dutch tulipiere vase, sporadically inserted with a collection of hand carved lime wood tulips.
Through this piece, I aim to question the place of historical ornament in contemporary society. ‘Best Chair’ serves as a tongue-in-cheek response to the cultural significance of prized, yet often unused functional furniture in working-class family homes and the collision of the Aesthetic and the Arts and Crafts movement. It raises questions about the interplay of function versus frivolity and considers the roles of those who create and those who acquire ornamental art.”
Header Image credit: Mayfair LDN
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Find out more about study on the UK’s only BA (Hons) Carving: Woodcarving and Gilding and MA Carving at one of our upcoming Open Days for 2025/26 study.
Screenshot: The Evening Standard
Screenshot: Harper’s Bazaar Online
Image Credit: The Sarabande Foundation
