Inspired by the industrial landscape of her father’s injection moulding factory, Jo Wilson was driven to create unique, limited edition reclaimed Australian native hardwood stools and objects. Exploring the changes and processes inherent in timber and with economy and simplicity being fundamental to her work, her pared back pieces bring warmth to interior spaces and are handcrafted in order to remind us of the meaning found in raw, natural materials. A continued exploration of contemporary centerpieces and objects in wood, often with a mix of new materials, inspires her to create pure forms.

“Spending time at the factory enables me to re-think the industrial process. The works are a response to my immersion in this environment. I investigate and deconstruct the plastic components, exploring colours, shapes, lines and balance. My pieces extend the machinery and the injection-moulded objects into a resolved aesthetic; a formal geometric simplicity. Each small series or batch is informed by the moulding processes at my father’s Australian-owned manufacturing factory, Micro Plastics. This has always been a platform for exploring abstract forms.

Local timbers evoke the history of the tree and hold a presence, capturing a raw quietness. I am passionate about re-use and experimenting with salvaged/recycled materials. Produced in strictly limited editions, each stand alone object is intended for the art of collecting.”

Graduating from Monash University with degree in Fine Arts, a Diploma of Education and Master of Fine Arts, Jo juggles teaching drawing and printmaking to adults with her own art practice.

Her sculpted works have been acquired by Fender Katsalids/ MONA, Woods Bagot, SJB, FMD Architects, Hassell, Elizabeth Anne McGregor, Paul Mathis, The Van Haandels, The Buchan Group, PCG, Carr Design, Cate Blanchett, Nexus Designs, David Hicks Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa, Peppers - The Louise, and private collections in Australia, New Zealand, London and New York.

Jo lives and works in Melbourne, Australia.

CV