Sarah Jackson, a visionary British artist, weaves intricate collages that burst with the untamed spirit of wildlife, transforming fragments of discarded magazines into vivid portraits of creatures that seem poised to leap from the page. Uniquely, her eco-conscious alchemy turns the ephemera of consumer culture—snippets of fashion glossies and newsprint—into textured homages to endangered species, layering irony and advocacy in a single, shimmering frame that whispers of beauty born from waste.
Her signature technique builds depth through meticulous overlays of recycled paper, mimicking the fluid strokes of paint while embedding a subtle call to environmental mindfulness. Jackson's compositions, alive with the sinuous forms of seals, stingrays, and orcas amid oceanic blues and earthy greens, evoke the raw adventure of Cornwall's wild shores, blending whimsy with a profound respect for nature's fragility.
From her early explorations of coastal critters to her bold evocations of underwater realms, Jackson's art pulses with optimistic energy. Her works, rich in colour and narrative, serve as joyful reminders of the world's wonders, urging us to cherish and safeguard the habitats that inspire them.
Biography
Born: 1989, London, UK
Sarah Jackson was born in the vibrant hum of London, where she spent her first eight years absorbing the city's ceaseless rhythm before her family relocated to the rugged embrace of Cornwall. There, amid crashing waves and windswept moors, she discovered a deep affinity for the natural tapestry around her, sketching the elusive dance of wildlife as a child.
At Falmouth University, Jackson honed her craft, graduating in 2011 with a BA in Illustration and embracing collage as her medium of choice. This method, born from a desire to repurpose and reflect, allowed her to channel the Cornish landscape's wild essence into layered narratives that speak of adventure and stewardship. Post-graduation, she ventured into freelance editorial illustration, collaborating on projects that sharpened her eye for storytelling through visual metaphor.
Now settled in North Devon, Jackson continues to draw from her coastal roots, her studio a haven of clippings and canvases where personal passion meets global concern. Her evolution from urban origins to rural reverence underscores a creative journey rooted in curiosity, where each collage becomes a bridge between human folly and nature's quiet resilience.
Achievements
Sarah Jackson’s notable contributions to the art world include:
Winning the Ronald Morgan Memorial Award at the Royal Society of British Artists exhibition in 2023 for her evocative piece 'Octavia'
Receiving Highly Commended recognition from the De Laszlo Foundation at the same 2023 exhibition, highlighting her innovative collage techniques
Finalist in the David Shepherd Wildlife Artist of the Year competition, celebrating her commitment to environmental themes through wildlife portraiture
Building a thriving freelance career with commissions from international clients, including The Wall Street Journal and Starbucks, blending commercial illustration with fine art