Artist Interview: Jack (theBoysofJack)
Here is an interview with Jack (theBoysofJack). Check out Jack’s work at The Ballery as part of the fetish exhibition.
What is your background? Perhaps you could briefly introduce yourself and your practice?
I live in Berlin for 5 years. I come from France, from the city of Lyon. I have been drawing since I was a child. In high school, I studied drawing. But, I learned a lot by myself. I am self-taught. I worked on different techniques (acrylic paint, colored inks, etc.) before pencil. Of course, the artist who fascinated and inspired me is Tom of Finland (the Master).
Can you tell us a bit about this work?
My drawings start from a desire, a fantasy, a moment with a guy. I want to share all of this in my drawings. The viewer can imagine things seeing the drawing, maybe remembering a moment … I want to excite the viewer. With this drawing, I want to show a pretty, very naughty Puppy. I like to draw the leather (work the light and dark).
I try to describe to you in the most detail a fetish mood. This drawing is in A4 format.
What does ‘fetish’ mean to you?
Fetish is synonymous with leather, latex, uniforms, masks … fantasies.
What made you apply for this call in particular?
I like to draw leather (a harness, a mask, a jacket …). I thought to myself: why not give it a try?
Do you feel the discussion around fetishes is a balanced one, or do you think it often comes from one particular perspective?
We are in Berlin, the city where anything is possible. The various evenings at Berghain or a Gegen at Kitkat allow us to experience our Fetish mood freely. I think this is a normal discussion and shared among friends. Then let’s not forget that Berlin hosts the biggest Fetish festival in Europe … the Folsom.
Do you think Berlin has a unique connection to fetishism, if so why?
Yes: because Berlin has hosted Folsom for many years.
No: the first thing I think of when I see the word “Fetish” is Tom of Finland. It’s the reference of the fetish.
How do you feel about exhibiting work online instead of in a space?
It is a good way to make yourself known. We are in the 21st century, everything works via the communications media (Instagram, Twitter …) …
What are you looking for from an exhibition, besides selling work?
To meet other artists, to talk about techniques and of course … to show my work!!
Do you ever get nervous about showing work in an exhibition?
Oh yes, totally !! It’s always nice to meet people at an exhibition. But I don’t really feel comfortable around people. It’s always a little stressful to talk about your job.
Have you ever shown at The Ballery before?
No it’s my first time.