Josie Beszant

My work explores the beauty that can be found in the broken and damaged, in stories that we carry through the objects preserved. I use found items combined with papers, textiles and paint. I am interested in the layers of meaning that can be tangible by using found objects. My work examines collections, why we collect and how objects preserve memory and storytelling. I am interested in reliquaries and the sacred nature of objects.

Selected Exhibitions:
2015: Harrogate Open, The Mercer Gallery Harrogate
Project After Birth, White Moose Gallery Barnstaple
2014: “The Cold Bath Road Mystery” commissioned by Chrysalis Arts for the Yorkshire Festival working with storyteller Matthew Bellwood and puppeteer Vivien Mousdell.
2013: “Treasured Fragments” solo show Southwell Minster, Nottinghamshire.
2013: “Kilter Kelter” Cupola Gallery Sheffield.
2012/15: International Collage exhibition and exchange New Zealand
2012: Ontoglogical Museum Collage Centennial Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
2011-15: Part of North Yorkshire Open Studios
2010: Lost and Found solo show at Farfield Mill Sedbergh
2008: A1 exhibition Richmond Station
2008: Rural Arts Thirsk
2007: Great North Art Show Ripon
2007: Joint exhibition with Hester Cox at Blake Head café gallery York
2002: Joint exhibition with Hester Cox at Helmsley Arts Centre