JEMMA VAN OSCH

Jemma Van Osch is an emerging visual artist working primarily with hot glass. Raised in Forest Grove, a rural community in British Columbia, her upbringing instilled in her a deep appreciation for the natural world, which often subtly informs her work. After graduating high school, she moved to Calgary to attend the Alberta College of Art + Design (now Alberta University of the Arts), where she immersed herself in the challenging and captivating medium of glass. Van Osch graduated from ACAD with a BFA in Glass in 2017, honing her technical skills and developing a distinct artistic voice. During her time at ACAD, she gained a solid foundation in traditional glassblowing techniques, which she continues to explore and expand upon in her practice.

Following graduation, Van Osch moved to Vancouver, where she currently resides, contributing to the city's vibrant arts scene. She works as a glassblower for Bocci, a renowned lighting production studio, where she has gained invaluable experience working in a fast-paced, design-oriented environment. This experience has not only refined her technical abilities but also exposed her to innovative approaches to glass design and fabrication. Concurrently, she is an active member of Vancouver’s Terminal City Glass Co-op, a hub for glass artists. At the co-op, she creates her work, exploring the interplay of form, light, and colour in her pieces, and assists her colleagues, contributing to Vancouver’s thriving glass community. Her involvement with the co-op reflects her commitment to community engagement and her passion for sharing her knowledge and skills.

Beyond her professional work, Van Osch has sought opportunities to expand her artistic horizons. She participated in an artist residency at Lumel Studios in Whitehorse, Yukon, in 2017, allowing her dedicated time and space to explore new ideas and develop her artistic vision in a different environment. She has also worked as a gaffer assistant for established artists, further broadening her understanding of the collaborative nature of glass art.

Currently, Van Osch is focusing on her "Stone Series," a collection of luminous orbs of clear glass, each cradling vibrant hues suspended within. These pieces capture the ephemeral beauty of natural forms, evoking a sense of hidden worlds. The interplay of light and color within each 'stone' creates a mesmerizing dance, reminiscent of sunlight filtering through crystalline pools or the delicate glow of nascent life. Each piece is a study in transparency and depth, inviting the viewer to explore the subtle variations and unique character of each individual creation. Within the 'Stone Series,' Van Osch demonstrates her mastery of glass, capturing the fluidity of the molten material in smooth, tactile orbs. Each piece cradles a unique spectrum of color, from serene blues and greens to vibrant oranges and blacks, creating a captivating interplay of light and reflection.

The 'Stone Series' invites contemplation. Each 'stone' is a testament to Van Osch's artistic vision, showcasing her ability to transform glass into objects of enduring beauty and wonder. The subtle variations in form, color, and internal depth invite viewers to explore the unique character of each piece and discover the magic held within. Through her dedication to her craft and her active participation in the glass community, Jemma Van Osch is poised to make significant contributions to the field of contemporary glass art.