Fragments of Reality – Stuart Jackson and Yelena Visemirska

Fragments of Reality is the debut exhibition in Wasps’ new programme of cross estate events, which brings together artists from the breadth of Scotland, curated by the Arts Project Manager.

From Stuart: Outside of secondary school I’m a self taught artist, I began with life drawing which developed into practice based on direct line drawing. I started my practice in Vancouver Canada 25 years ago, since then I have worked in diffrent media specialising in ceramic figurative sculpture, there are quite strong narrative themes through out much of my work but it is still fundamentally based on form. I have been based in Vancouver and London as well as Scotland and participated in ceramic based residency’s in Canada and the Netherlands.

From Yelena: Growing up in a ‘sleepy district’ filled with khrushchevka prefabricated panel houses gave my childhood a distinct flavor. Picture this: a landscape dominated by raw concrete, blocky structures, and a vibe that felt both gritty and oddly comforting. I was surrounded by these exposed concrete constructions, where rough textures and angular forms reigned supreme. Honestly, the place had character—lots of it.

Some of the buildings in my neighborhood were a little more than just concrete shells. They were unfinished, almost ghostly, with their interiors spilling into the open air. Pipes snaked across walls, and skeletal frameworks jutted out, creating a curious blend of inside and outside. It blurred lines for a kid like me, sparking my imagination and shaping the way I see the world.

As I began painting, my early experiences took form on canvas. The structures that once surrounded me became more than just memories; they evolved into a celebration of brutalism. I express this through my art using oils and acrylics—each brushstroke a homage to that stark beauty of my upbringing. Additionally, I often dabble in making small sculptures from concrete and wire, merging my love for three-dimensional forms with the two-dimensional worlds I create on canvas.

So, when you look at my paintings, I hope you catch a glimpse of that world. The unrefined beauty of concrete, the interplay between raw structures and the chaos of urban life—it’s all there, a reflection of my childhood and the inspiration that continues to drive my work. I aim to share not just an aesthetic, but a whole vibe that resonates with anyone who appreciates the rugged charm of concrete and steel, just as I did growing up.

Born in Latvia in 1984, Yelena Visemirska‘s journey took an unexpected turn in 2003, leading them to the captivating landscapes of Scotland. Now calling Scotland home, the artist’s work is a fascinating tapestry woven from the threads of two distinct cultures, demonstrating a remarkable talent for integration and creative expression.

After graduating from the University of Highlands and Islands in Moray in 2014, the artist became an integral part of the vibrant Wasps art community. This association has undoubtedly provided a valuable platform for collaboration, growth, and exposure within the Scottish art scene.

While immersed in the Scottish community, the artist remains deeply connected to their Latvian heritage. They acknowledge the profound influence of their upbringing, stating that their homeland is a constant source of inspiration. This connection is evident in their paintings, where echoes of Latvian culture blend seamlessly with observations of their Scottish surroundings. The resulting artworks offer a unique perspective – a visual dialogue between two worlds.

The artist’s creative arsenal is diverse and dynamic, encompassing the rich textures of oil and acrylic paints, alongside experimentation with other mediums. This versatility allows them to explore a wide range of subject matter and express their vision with nuanced depth. Architectural studies serve as potent symbols of decay, resilience, and the enduring power of the built environment. Perhaps these concrete forms, often weathered and worn, offer a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the transformation of landscapes – themes resonant in both Latvian and Scottish contexts. 

Ultimately, this artist’s story is one of cultural fusion and artistic exploration. They have embraced their new home while honoring their roots, forging a unique identity that shines through in their diverse and compelling artwork. By blending the familiar with the foreign, they offer us a glimpse into a world where cultural boundaries blur and artistic expression knows no limits. Their work serves as a testament to the enriching power of cultural exchange and the enduring influence of home, wherever that may be.