Making a mark

Presenting Jo Lewis, Jyoti Bharwani and Phoebe Boddy - the artists whose work represents a new era at The OWO.

Jo Lewis

Jo Lewis draws with the dynamism and flux of water. Working predominantly in rivers, lakes and the sea, her practice is about being not a mere observer of but a participant and collaborator with water.

Her large-scale ink works trace the spontaneous and fragile moments of interaction between paper, ink and the elements. The result is equal process, equal still image, and explores the constant flux that underlines our environmental and physical connectivity. She sees each series as the outcome of a conversation with place; the series created on behalf of The OWO came to life in the river Thames, which flows just behind the grand building complex.

In doing so, Jo brings to life the curatorial themes exploring a merging of past and present – a visual representation of a Tunnel through Time whilst also harnessing the theme of Rebirth and Renewal through her emotive interaction with water.

Jyoti Bharwani

Jyoti Bharwani creates work that draws attention to the vital materiality present in reality, which we have little control over but are wholly part of. By exploring ideas of boundaries and control, her practice investigates the inherent beauty of materials and how they can form a deep connection with us.

Drawing on Eastern philosophies and new materialist theories that emphasise the fluid and interdependent connections between humans, materials and the planet, her creative expression is based on their holistic and cosmological worldviews, aiming to make work with a less human-centred approach.

Displayed within the walls of The OWO, this new series was created specifically with the building's history in mind. Referencing the visual characteristics of counters and board games, it questions the parallels between strategic decisions in games and war. The balance with a feminine, or yin, energy includes a more collaborative, creative and receptive nature allowing for an openness to change with endless possibilities.

Jyoti's work embodies a thematic direction to look closer at Innovation, Industrialisation and Craft in connection to the unique narrative of this impressive property.

Phoebe Boddy

Phoebe Boddy's practice is stimulated by food and flavour, using the process of abstract painting to express the emotional and sensual pleasures of taste.

By storing personal recollections and experiences she encounters with food, she recreates these memories in the studio through abstract interpretative painting. The result is playful, often humorous, involving energised brushstrokes, infused with bold use of colour and form.

Phoebe's commission for The OWO draws on her more abstract and expressive compositions that often combine materials such as spray paint, watercolour and charcoal; the layering technique provides a fluid yet powerful final visual effect. At the heart of The OWO art collection is a celebration of contemporary creativity and talent in London, and Phoebe personifies this important theme.

Phoebe is also the co-founder of Palette Dining, a concept hosting unique dining experiences exploring the sensory connections between food and art.