Jesse Wakenshaw emerges as a visionary multidisciplinary artist, fervently rejecting the ties of perfectionism in pursuit of profound self-expression. With an unwavering commitment to exploring the intricate interplay between scent and visual artistry, Jesse's creative odyssey unfolds as a mesmerising journey through the realms of identity and self-discovery.
Jesse's oeuvre transcends traditional boundaries, offering a tantalising sensory tapestry that evokes both nostalgia and innovation. In a post-internet era saturated with visual stimuli, he boldly ventures into uncharted territory, weaving together the elusive language of scent with the visual medium to forge deeply resonant narratives.
Harnessing the ethereal power of olfaction, Jesse deftly manipulates fragrances to evoke a myriad of emotions, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in an experiential journey of self-reflection and introspection. Each composition serves as a testament to the intimate relationship between scent and memory, as well as the transformative potential of sensory exploration.
Drawing inspiration from personal experiences of trauma and liberation, Jesse's work serves as a poignant meditation on the complexities of identity and the human condition. Through a delicate balance of vulnerability and resilience, he endeavours to capture the ephemeral essence of the present moment, inviting audiences to partake in a transcendent olfactory experience that transcends the boundaries of language and perception.
Linger/ Puzzles Art Gallery, Chippendale
The exhibition space becomes a multi- sensory environment, a new realm in which to explore and perhaps reflect on and process ones trauma/ psychology.
Growing up as a queer child in a hyper masculine, sometimes harsh and brutal world provides a backdrop for the inner turmoil faced in which he now uses to inspire his practice.
Using Olfaction, Photography , Video and Sculpture, Jesse intertwines the mediums and creates a bridge between the past and the present.
Linger is an experimental work that showcases both natural and synthetic aroma chemical compounds in their rarest form.
Core memories are often tied strongly via the memory of scent. Scent has the power to transport oneself to a particular place and time.
With this mind, the scents created here play on various themes; time tension, danger, polarisation, fear and fragility.
The interaction of these formulated accords correspond with the emotions that arise during the creation of the visual work.
Jesse Wakenshaw’s focal starting point ‘Linger’ was to experiment deeply with the ideas of ‘seeing a smell’.
Intentionally sourced and repurposed materials that were pre- loved ; various items the artist serendipitously came across, in order to highlight how scent connects to memories and how emotions can be attached to particular objects.
Jesse adapts a playful approach in order to make his inner Child’s dreams and desires feel seen.
An ode to flamboyancy and vulnerability that once was repressed and hidden.