Jaie Miller
Biography
Jaie Miller (b.1987) is a black-British London based artist. Inspired by the movie City of God (directed by Fernando Meirelles, 2002) he picked up his first camera, a Nikon FE. Having now amassed an array of cameras and devices to use for his work including a Microcord England, Seagull, Olympus XA & Bronica S2, he has also worked with the Fujifilm X-series extensively since the arrival of the XE1. Throughout the years he has been exploring the camera’s brain while travelling to different cities and countries such as Paris, Habana, New York, Rome & Zagreb. Avid lover of jazz he has a weekly radio show on Colourful Radio (DAB) where he co-curates a selection of vinyl bringing together an historic sense of the music as it moves through culture. A reader and published author of poetry. He seeks those decisive moments necessary in order to bring to light the tricks concealed within the camera. Especially interested in analogue approaches, the photos he takes are printed onto fibre based paper in his darkroom studio using Durst equipment.
Licentiate member of The British Institute of Photographers 2015-2017.
Represented by Degree Art since 2015.
Exhibitions:
ING Discerning artist - Mall Galleries - November 2022
Photography Now - Brick Lane Gallery - August 2017
Publications:
Open Magazine
Grey Thoughts Journal
Human Repair Kit
Synchronised Chaos
Ditch
Soho Radio
NTS Radio
Cyber Hex
Colourful Radio
What’s your background?
My background is a rich tapestry of diverse influences and experiences that have shaped me into the artist I am today. Born in London to Jamaican parents who have established themselves professionally, I grew up with an older brother in a nurturing and supportive environment. Our family moved from Tottenham to Palmers Green in 1987, which offered new perspectives and opportunities for growth.
As a child, I found the world of art intriguing, but it was the written word that had the most profound impact on me. During my secondary school years, I struggled with conflicting demands, expectations, and responsibilities, eventually leading me through some dark moments. After leaving college, I found myself outside the school system with an uncertain future.
It was while watching the film "City of God" that I discovered my passion for photography. The movie resonated with me on a deep level, and it sparked a newfound interest in capturing the world through a lens. Alongside this uncertainty, I sought solace and inspiration in the works of literary giants such as Toni Morrison and Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Their words provided valuable insight, guidance, and motivation to continue exploring my creative inclinations.
Over time, I found myself drawn to the worlds of poetry, music, and photography. These art forms have become essential components of my identity as an artist, and they continue to inspire and inform my work. By blending my love for the written word with my passion for photography, I aim to create unique and emotionally resonant images that capture the essence of the world around me.
What does it mean to you to win the Collectors Art Prize?
Winning the Collectors Art Prize is both an incredible honor and a source of motivation for me. I am deeply touched by the recognition, as it validates the hard work, passion, and dedication I have poured into my art. This achievement feels like a life-giving force, similar to a plant receiving water, nourishing and energizing me to continue pursuing my artistic goals.
At the same time, I am curious about the expectations that come with this prestigious award. I view these expectations as a challenge and an opportunity for growth, driving me to push my boundaries and further develop my skills. As an artist, I am committed to meeting and surpassing these expectations, using the Collectors Art Prize as a catalyst for continued exploration, innovation, and excellence in my work.
Ultimately, this award represents both validation and potential – a reminder of what I have accomplished thus far and an inspiration to strive for even greater heights in the future.
What do you think is the role of art in the world today?
I believe the role of art in the world today is multifaceted, serving as both a reflection of our reality and a catalyst for change. In a world that is increasingly complex and often overwhelming, art provides a means to process, understand, and confront the challenges we face. It acts as a mirror, allowing us to examine our own lives and the world around us from new perspectives.
Art has the power to stop us from denying or escaping reality, forcing us to confront the truth of our existence and the human condition. It serves as a conduit for our collective memory, connecting us across time and space. The cave paintings, for example, stand as a testament to the enduring human desire to express ourselves, tell our stories, and leave a mark on the world. They remind us that, despite the passage of time, we are still connected to those who came before us, and we share a common desire to be seen, understood, and remembered.
In a world that is rapidly changing, the meaning and message of art may evolve, but its significance remains unwavering. Art today serves as a beacon of hope, a source of inspiration, and a platform for communication and dialogue. It challenges us to question our preconceived notions, to empathise with others, and to imagine a better future.
Ultimately, the role of art in the world today is to remind us of our humanity and our shared experiences. Through the power of artistic expression, we can bridge gaps, forge connections, and gain a deeper understanding of the world and ourselves. Art remains an essential part of our lives, enriching our experiences and giving voice to the stories that matter most.
What would it be if you could change one thing about the art world?
If I could change one thing about the art world, it would be to encourage artists to "steal like an artist," rather than a thief. By this, I mean promoting a mindset of drawing inspiration from the work of others in a creative and imaginative way, without resorting to plagiarism or misappropriation.
In this redefined context of "stealing," artists would be encouraged to learn from each other, to absorb ideas, techniques, and styles, and then to integrate these elements into their own unique work. The focus would be on building upon the foundations laid by others while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.
This approach would foster a community where collaboration, mutual respect, and shared growth are celebrated, and where the exchange of ideas and experiences is valued. The art world would then be transformed into a more supportive and dynamic ecosystem, in which creativity flourishes, and artists are empowered to reach new heights together.
What are your most significant professional achievements?
I am incredibly honoured and humbled to share some of my most significant professional achievements thus far. Among them, being selected for the Discerning Eye 2022 exhibition truly stands out. Having my work chosen by both Kate Enters and Aindrea Emelife for their curated spaces at the Mall Galleries was a validating and exhilarating experience that I will always cherish.
This recognition not only boosted my confidence as an artist but also provided me with a valuable platform to showcase my work to a wider audience. The exposure gained from the Discerning Eye 2022 exhibition has led to further opportunities and collaborations, contributing to my ongoing growth and development in the world of photography.
I am deeply grateful for these achievements, and I look forward to building on them as I continue to explore, create, and share my passion for photography with the world.
What do you wish to tell viewers about your work that might not come out explicitly? What do you hope to inspire with your artwork?
In my work, there is a depth of thought and reflection that may not be immediately apparent to viewers. I have spent hundreds of hours sitting and reflecting, striving to reach a mental state where I can fully unbind my creative potential. My artistic process is not confined to periods of active creation – I consider myself to be creative in every moment, drawing from various sources of inspiration to fuel my passion.
My synesthetic experiences play a significant role in my work. The blending of senses, particularly the connection between sounds, music, and visual imagery, transports me to distant places and allows me to explore unique perspectives. Poetry has also been a substantial influence, providing me with rich, evocative language that shapes my artistic vision.
I am grateful for the guidance and wisdom of teachers and mentors outside the traditional school environment. Their insights have been invaluable in helping me navigate the complex world of art and refine my craft.
The relationship between my mind and the camera is a fascinating aspect of my work. While my own perceptions and the camera's "brain" may differ, the fusion of these perspectives results in captivating images that capture the essence of my artistic vision. I appreciate the "eyes" the camera provides, as it allows me to present the world in a way that is both familiar and refreshingly new.
Through my artwork, I hope to inspire viewers to look beyond the surface and explore the deeper, hidden layers of meaning. I want to encourage a sense of curiosity and wonder, inviting them to engage with the world around them in new and imaginative ways. By sharing my unique perspective and experiences, I aim to create a lasting connection with my audience, fostering a shared appreciation for the beauty and complexity of life.
What advice would you give to the upcoming generation of artists?
To the upcoming generation of artists, I would suggest:
Embrace your creativity: Remember that you are an artist, and your unique perspective on the world is your greatest asset. Trust in your creativity and know that your vision is valuable.
Growth is continuous: Just as no person enters the same river twice, you are constantly evolving as an artist. Embrace change and allow it to inform your work, relationships, and communication.
Develop professionalism: Treat your art as a business, and cultivate a professional mindset. Even if you haven't yet received payment for your work, practice writing invoices – even for £0. This will help you develop the necessary skills for when your career takes off.
Be a keen observer and listener: Take the time to sit and listen, both to yourself and others. Learn from the experiences and wisdom of others, mentors, and peers. Absorb the world around you and allow it to inspire and inform your work.
Stay true to yourself: In a world of trends and fleeting fads, remain authentic to your artistic vision. Stay grounded in your values and beliefs, and let your unique voice shine through your work.
Keep pushing boundaries: Don't be afraid to experiment and explore new ideas, techniques, and mediums. Push yourself out of your comfort zone, and embrace the opportunity to learn and grow.
By following some these guiding principles, you can cultivate a fulfilling and successful artistic career. Stay passionate, stay curious, and never lose sight of the power of your creativity.
In what direction would you like to see your career go in the next five years?
In the next five years, I envision my career evolving and expanding in several exciting directions. First and foremost, I'd like to collaborate with master printers to further refine my technique and explore new possibilities in the medium. This would not only enhance my skills but also allow me to produce even more captivating and thought-provoking works.
Travel is another important aspect of my future plans. I hope to participate in shows around the world, showcasing my work to diverse audiences and gaining fresh insights from different cultures and environments. This exposure will undoubtedly contribute to my growth as an artist and help me connect with art enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Supporting and acknowledging the people involved at every stage of my creative process is crucial to me. I want to create an environment that fosters collaboration, communication, and mutual respect. By working closely with other artists, I believe we can push each other to new heights and inspire one another to explore uncharted artistic territories.
Giving back to the community is also an essential part of my long-term vision. I hope to use my success and influence to support and uplift others, be it through mentorship, workshops, or philanthropic bits and pieces. Contributing to and being a force for real good, the greater good.
In the next five years, I aim to see continued growth and success in my career, marked by gallery representation, strong sales, participation in art fairs, and a reputation for professionalism and innovation. Through teamwork, inspiration, and a ferocious pursuit of excellence, I am confident that I will achieve these goals and leave a positive imprint on the world of art.
Country United Kingdom
Website www.jaiemiller.com
