We’ve featured Joanne’s work before, and now she’s part of our new series: DIY Interview. If you’d like to be a part of it, just check out the end of this post.
What is your craft / art / creative endeavor?
I make light sculptures by taking a piece of reed, and bending and twisting it into an interesting shape. Once I’m happy with the shape, tissues and handmade paper are applied over the reed with wheat paste.
My light sculptures have no front or back, up or down. This is because I want the you to feel relaxed and at ease when you view it, to explore my light sculptures however way you wish.
How did you get started? Have you worked in other creative areas before the kind of work you’re doing now?
I made my first light sculpture during a one week art enrichment program in high school. During the week, 15 students and I work closely with an artist. She taught us how to form the sculptures, and the techniques of papermaking with plants.
After high school and college, I worked in advertising agencies such as Young & Rubicam and Grey Worldwide as an Art Director. In July 2009 I lost my job due to the company’s restructuring plan. Instead of looking for another job at another agency, I decided to take this opportunity to re-visit the experience of making abstract paper light sculptures in high school.