JAUZZLE FRANCE

About Jauzzle France:
Born and raised in the Caribbean, Jauzzle France earned her MFA at SUNY New Paltz
located in New York and her BA at Lycoming College in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. France is a visual artist whose interest in photography began in middle school after “borrowing” her brother’s digital camera to photograph her friends and environment. France collages personal photographs with her abstract paintings, drawings, and found textiles. Her work revolves around identity, culture, narratives, folklore, and mental health. Influenced by genres such as fantasy and mythology, she utilized personification and metaphors to better understand our world and her experiences in them. France creates glimpses into fictional worlds through mixed media while reimagining well- known Western stories and phrases while injecting her narrative combined with Afro-Caribbean folklore. France is currently based in Pittsburgh where she enjoys learning more about the city and the yinzers who inhabit it.

Artist Statement:
In my artistic journey, I explore the Jumbie, a mischievous, ghost-like creature from Caribbean folklore, as a metaphor for my mental health struggles after moving to the U.S. My children’s book Are You Seeing Jumbie? and The Jumbie Quilt use photography, digital collage, and textiles to illustrate the turmoil of navigating two cultures and the stigma surrounding mental disorders. Through these projects, I document my day-to-day life with Jumbie, reflecting on our evolving relationship from initial fear to reluctant acquaintance, symbolizing my journey toward understanding and acceptance of my mental health.

Join us on Friday, April 4, from 6-10 pm for the opening of Jauzzle’s show. Snacks, drinks, and family-friendly activities will be available.