As a young girl Jemma was lucky to live nearby a private collection of sculptures by such luminaries as Rodin, Epstein and Moore which was her inspiration to become a sculptor. She trained at City & Guilds in London where she was awarded the Madam Tussaud’s Sculpture prize scholarship to Rome.
Jemma’s focus has been figurative sculpture in particular portraits, both human and animal. Her first public commission was the two Almsmen of Clun, however her most notable have been those of Darwin, Gladstone and two of Elgar.
Jemma is well known for her detailed research, her ability to go beyond a true likeness drawing out the essence of personality and character, as well as developing a narrative.
Statement
Clay could not be closer to the earth but the chance to explore sculptural ideas balancing shape, texture and colour in other gathered natural materials is refreshing. I have enjoyed the lightness of heart and quirky edge in creating more entertaining portraits and pushing the inherent qualities of these materials to new ends.
www.jemmapearson.com