Africa on wood
The Nyayo team value the skill of creatives and artists. With such an emphasis on design work in our own magazines, we are always on the hunt for interesting work. When we found Jack Visser, we were infatuated with his talent. With a mix of a Scottish and South African background, Jack encapsulates the essence of Africa’s wildlife, people and culture in rustic woodwork.
Like many artists, Jack has been busier than ever during the COVID period and has used the time to develop and perfect his portfolio. We speak to Jack about his pyrography work.
What does your work aim to say?
Anything is possible. I do this by using the most basic of equipment rather than using a fancy pyrography machine with multiple settings. I showcase this whenever I post my latest piece. I often show the tools I used to create it. I believe in using the resources you have available and you can achieve anything.
How did you get into using wood as a medium?
I come from a long line of artists, all of which used wood. I actually found my grandmothers old wood burning tool buried away in my parents house. My father also used the same tool. Now I’ve found it and seem to be following a family tradition in a way.
What is the process of creating your work?
I usually start by sourcing the wood. Simply by finding it washed up on a beach somewhere or while walking through the forest. I then search the internet for inspiration. Once I have found an appropriate image I will draw my own version onto the wood. But I will only draw the bare minimum (outline and eye placement) to save time. After that I dive straight in with the burner and pretty much wing it as I go.
Each piece is different in terms of size and complexity so it differs a lot in time. But on average it takes me about 6 hours to complete a piece.
How does your work showcase Africa?
African art is often done in a resourceful way. Upcycling is a huge part of African culture inside and outside of art. I believe by sourcing what would otherwise have been scrap wood that I am following this resourceful pattern.
How have you developed your career?
In the beginning I practiced for 3 years until I felt I was good enough. From there I started taking custom orders. In between customs I would create my own personal collection. My Instagram grew very quickly and the more I grew the more brands started to notice my work.
My first brand job was actually this year. Dremel, one of the largest DIY tool companies, flew me out to Frankfurt to perform at a creative event using their blowtorch. I have a few other line ups but all are on hold right now due to COVID.
Lockdown has been great for my career however. It gave me so much time to build my art into more of a business. I was able to set up a website with a shop, and have been taking loads of custom orders.
Jack Visser is an incredibly talented artist. Give him a follow @jackvisserpyro and visit his shop at here.