Jo Creations Gallery

Born in the 1960’s in an eastern coastal town in Scotland, I draw inspiration from my hometown’s rich industrial heritage. Once a thriving maritime powerhouse and Scotland’s foremost coal port, my community is now embarking on a transformative journey towards a sustainable future. This evolution not only reflects the resilience of the town but also resonates deeply in my artistic practice. Through my work, I explore themes of change, renewal, and the interplay between history and innovation, capturing the essence of a place that is redefining itself in the face of new challenges. 

From my earliest memories, I have been captivated by art and design, drawing inspiration from the rugged landscape, the North Sea, and the remnants of the coal mining industry-such as the iconic headstocks and winding engine houses that shape my surroundings. My creative process thrives in the outdoors, where I engage with nature’s beauty and variability. I enjoy working with a diverse array of materials, including found objects, ceramics, textiles, wood, and metal, allowing me to weave together the textures and narratives of my environment. This exploration not only reflects my personal journey but also pays homage to the rich history and evolving identity of my hometown. 

Throughout my studies and beyond, I have drawn inspiration from renowned artists such as Zaha Hadid, Barbara Hepworth, Anish Kapoor, Henry Moore, David Hockney and Vincent van Gogh. Their innovative approaches and unique interpretations of form and space have profoundly influenced my artistic journey, encouraging me to explore new dimensions in my own work. 

Throughout my career, I have successfully operated a ceramic business, allowing me to explore my passion for craftmanship and design. Additionally, I had the privilege of leading a rewarding art project within a school, where a dedicated group of teachers collaborated to raise funds and implement a variety of creative initiatives. This experience not only enriched the student’s artistic education but also reinforced my belief in the transformative power of art within the community. 

Continuing my commitment to the outdoors and supporting children, I walked the Inca Trail to raise funds for deaf children, an experience that profoundly impacted my perspective. This journey was not only a physical challenge but also a heartfelt effort to make a difference in young loves. Following this, I hiked part of the Himalayas, where the breathtaking landscape further inspired my artistic vision. These adventures solidified my belief in the importance of combining nature, exploration, and advocacy for children. 

During my second year of studying for my BA Hons in 3D Multi-Disciplinary Design, I was fortunate to secure a work placement with a talented team of model makers for the film “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.” This experience was not only incredibly fun but also deeply fascinating, allowing me to immerse myself in the world of film production and witness the artistry behind creating such iconic sets and models. It greatly enriched my understanding of design and craftmanship, further fuelling my passion for multi-disciplinary artistic practices. 

I have also had the opportunity to work for a vibrant local theatre, contributing to the costume, set design, and prop departments. This experience enriched my understanding of theatrical arts and collaborative creativity. To date, my career has been both busy and fulfilling, primarily within the art and design departments of various schools. These roles have allowed me to inspire and engage students, fostering a love for creativity and expression in the next generation. 

Two life size  ( 2metres by 150cm) sculptures from a series of five 

Looking out from within          

 By Joan Syckelmoore 

In my personal practice, I continue to experiment with my art and have dedicated many years to developing a series of sculptures.  

I am thrilled to have been selected to have two of the sculptures created life-size into stainless steel, and have them exhibited in Switzerland Nr. Gstaad in collaboration with Influence Gallery and Hotel de Rougemont, alongside a talented group of artists.

My sculptural work draws inspiration from my birthplace in the eastern coastal town of Scotland, reflecting the circular imagery of the headstocks, the surrounding landscape, the North Sea,  

Each piece embodies my connection to these elements, celebrating both my roots and the artistic journey I continue to explore.  

I created the sculptural prototypes by marking and cutting a spiral design into flat sheets of metal, twisting and shaping the material into unconventional forms. This process reflects the challenging pathways we may encounter in life. Each sculpture embodies a journey of transformation and resilience, symbolizing the strength found in navigating obstacles and emerging with a renewed sense of purpose. 

I am deeply fascinated by the spiral as a positive symbol, one that appears prominently in many earth-based spiritual traditions, both ancient and modern. The spiral represents the flow of energy radiating into the universe and the gathering of energy as it converges. It serves as a guiding motif for meditation, inviting contemplation and interaction with the surrounding environment. As viewers engage with my sculptures, the spiral encourages a deeper connection to both the artwork and the natural world, fostering a sense of reflection and harmony.

My reflective sculptures are designed to mirror the journey of life, incorporating the symbolic spiral as a representation of the path from outer consciousness to the inner soul. This imagery marks the evolution of humankind from the physical to the spiritual realms, signifying the cyclical nature of existence and our ongoing pursuit of personal and spiritual growth. Each piece invites viewers to contemplate their own journeys, encouraging a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all life. 

The sculptures are designed to fit seamlessly into a wide range of environments, including private gardens, wellness areas, schools, hospital and hospice gardens, and public spaces. 

Each piece can be commissioned and constructed to suit your preferred dimensions, allowing for a personalized touch that enhances the surrounding landscape. My aim is to create art that not only resonates with individual viewers but also enriches the space it inhabits. 

Please feel free to email me with any queries or questions. I look forward to hearing from you.