Artists directory

Jan

Bowman

Location: Coldingham

Materials: Woven
As a weaver, my practice is deeply rooted in the observation of nature and its innate rhythms. Drawing inspiration from organic forms, patterns, and the ever-changing qualities of the natural world, I create wall art, sculptural works and spatial divides, that echo these influences. Each fabric is hand woven on my cherished George Wood dobby loom, located in my studio in Coldingham, in the beautiful Scottish Borders. Each work is designed to invite close inspection, revealing layers of intricacy and encouraging viewers to pause and reflect. Foraged materials are integral to many of my creations, with seaweed and sticks currently among my preferred choices. I find myself completely absorbed in the process of experimenting with these natural materials, blending them with more traditional fibres and weaving techniques. Elements of traditional Japanese aesthetics have significantly influenced my design development over the years. I am inspired by the traditional Japanese appreciation and interpretation of nature, their thoughtful use of materials, sensitivity to texture, and the remarkable standard of artistry and master craftsmanship evident in their creations.

Previous Experience

Teaching 1982 – 2017: Lecturer Textiles Design BA, MA, Loughborough University School of the Arts. Public Art Commissions 2013: Worsborough Health Centre, Barnsley: 14 wall panels. Tokyo New Hospital: Matsudo City, Japan, 4 panels. 2007: Neo-Natal Ward, Queens Hospital, Burton upon Trent. 3 panels. 2005-6: Dewsbury Health Centre: Yorkshire. 4 panels. 2005-2006: Ravensthorpe Health Centre: Yorkshire.2 panels. 2006: Musgrave Park Hospital, Belfast, I panel. 2004: Chelsea Flower Show, London. Garden centre piece. Business: 2012-2017: Tokyo, Japan: Orie Ltd. Artworks for apartment buildings. 2011: Aston University: Business School, Birmingham. 3 panels. 2007: Geldards Law Firm: Nottingham. I panel. . Exhibited extensively in UK and oversea, notably: 2022: Crafts Council Collect, Somerset House 2019: Collect Open, the Saatchi Gallery 2017: Be Gallery, Kyoto Japan 2012: Telemark University, Norway . 2011: Kunsthal Charlottenborg, Copenhagen. 2007: Axis Gallery, Ozone Design Centre, Tokyo. 2003: Crafts Council Gallery, London.

Collections

Not yet a member?

We are committed as a society to supporting and exhibiting a diverse range of contemporary Scottish art, in a wide variety of media – including drawing, painting, printmaking, textiles, photography, jewellery, ceramics and sculpture.

View our membership packages for more information and to sign-up.

Migrate to Stripe

Visual Arts Scotland memberships are now processed through Stripe. If you have been paying by bank transfer or PayPal we request that you switch your subscription to our new system to ensure continuity of membership.

Your card will not be charged until the renewal date of your membership.