ABOUT THE ARTIST
Jacob Kamara, a London native who grew up in a council estate in Portsmouth, defied societal expectations from a young age. After dropping out of formal education at the age of 12 - struggling to conform to the predetermined path for working-class boys, he found solace in exploring colour and texture. Whether it was creating floral arrangements in his bedroom or draping elaborate frocks from the net curtains his mother sold, Kamara embraced his unique artistic expression.
At the age of 19, Kamara's burning desire for creative freedom led him to apply for an access course in communication at The London College of Fashion. It was during this time that he crossed paths with his then mentor, Stephanie Cooper, who recognised his potential and encouraged him to apply to Central Saint Martins (CSM). After enduring five rigorous interviews, Kamara was granted admission into the prestigious Communications BA program at CSM.
Throughout his time at CSM, Kamara fully embraced his own creative language. His work delved into the intricate dynamics of relationships, particularly the negative space that exists between colliding objects or individuals. Whether it was exploring the connections between people or materials, Kamara's interest in this negative space became the foundation of his artistic expression.
Under the pseudonyms Sad Boy Studio and The Great Indoors, Jacob Kamara continues to explore nature, connectivity, and the human body. Through Sad Boy Studio, he pushes the boundaries of raw materials, engaging in a conversation with the material itself. Kamara sees his work as a dual performance, where he learns about both the final form and himself. With The Great Indoors, he captures the similarities and connections between the human body and the natural world through analogue photography and intimate scanning techniques.
Jacob Kamara's artistic journey is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his craft and his relentless pursuit of self-discovery through his art. He continues to push the boundaries of his creativity, exploring new avenues and challenging societal norms along the way.