ATRISTS PROFILE
Jemma Clements began her glassblowing apprenticeship in 1996 under the tutelage of her father, renowned glass artist Richard Clements. In a studio in Franklin, she is diligently learning to extend and manipulate the boundaries of her chosen art form. Jemma is part of a highly creative family; “My grandfather is our on-site engineer, both my sisters and my brother glass-blow, and my mother mainly makes jewellery, but also works with glass.”
Jemma has focussed most of her energies into the creation of perfume bottles, but at this years’ Craft Fair she will also be displaying her beads, hair chopsticks and hair vases. All of her work shows a distinctive understanding of chromatic subtleties. “I am inspired by colour, and the way it influences our moods.” In a recent exhibition at Handmark Gallery in Hobart, Jemma was praised for the delicacy and efficacy of her work.
Jemma cites the work of Australian and American artists such as Nick Mount, Deb Cox and Dale Chululy as influential to her practice and design, and states simply that “Australian glass is world class”.
Jemma plans to travel to the U.S.A. next year, in order to pursue professional
development opportunities, but plans to return to Tasmania to keep working
with her father, and the rest of her talented family. Visitors are welcome
to see the work of Jemma Clements in Venue 5 Stall no.529
ATRISTS PROFILE
PETER NIELSEN -
WOOD CRAFT WORKER
Peter Nielsen is a relative newcomer to woodcrafts, but in two years has managed to secure five outlets statewide for his products. The learning curve was rapid, as Peter had practiced or observed many of the skills required to be a craftsman as a boy. Local people are familiar with the work of Peter’s father, Niels, who has operated a studio in Golden Valley for many years. Last year Niels retired, and Peter stepped into his shoes.
However, Peter has not simply duplicated the work of Niels - “I like to think I have refined certain designs, and put my own touches to it.” Peter primarily produces furniture, utilising locally sourced materials, and describes his work as ‘rustic’. “It’s meant to be useful, strong and good to look at.”
Growing up in the Deloraine district, Peter had ample opportunities
to see other forms of woodcrafts, as he regularly attended the Craft Fair.
He has watched with interest as the Fair has grown in both size and reputation,
and believes “...it’s a good thing for tourists, and the people of Deloraine.”
Peter is happy to have been selected as one of this years Emerging Artists.
“I am glad to be involved with the Craft Fair. I take pride in my work,
and want to get it out there so people can see it.” Peter is in Venue
5 Stall no.508