Jakob Rowlinson

Jakob Rowlinson intertwines the natural world with medieval symbolism, questioning the bounds of masculinity throughout time. Using collage and felt, Rowlinson intertwines decorative patterns from medieval designs and manuscript marginalia within a wider expanse of organic iconography. Lining his backgrounds with organic green moss, ferns, and foliage, Rowlinson then adds stylised symbols with a modern twist. His focus on hands reaches into an exploration of gender and sexuality, commenting on the expressive gestures and emotions that can be conveyed using one’s hands.

Rowlinson, born in 1990, studied Fine Art at Ruskin School of Art, before completing an MA in Sculpture at the Royal College of Art. He has exhibited at Quench Gallery, Margate, Tandsticksmuseet, Sweden, and Clearview, London. He is the 2022 Artist-in-Residence at Fores Project, London. Rowlinson lives and works in London.