Jeremy Wood
Early Life and Education
Jeremy Wood is a contemporary artist known for his pioneering work in the field of GPS drawing and digital cartography. Born in 1976 in the United Kingdom, Wood developed an early interest in both art and technology. He pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of the Arts, London, where he majored in Fine Arts. His academic background provided a solid foundation in traditional artistic techniques while fostering an appreciation for emerging digital mediums.
Career and Artistic Development
Initial Works
Wood's initial foray into the art world involved traditional forms of painting and sculpture. However, his interest in technology led him to explore the intersection of art and digital mapping. In the late 1990s, Wood began experimenting with GPS technology, which was becoming increasingly accessible to the public. He saw the potential of GPS not just as a navigational tool but as a medium for artistic expression.
GPS Drawing
Jeremy Wood is best known for his innovative technique of GPS drawing, a form of land art that involves using GPS devices to create large-scale drawings by recording the artist's movements over a geographical area. This technique allows for the creation of intricate and expansive designs that can only be fully appreciated when viewed from above. Wood's GPS drawings often cover vast distances and can take days or even weeks to complete.
Notable Projects
One of Wood's most famous projects is "Meridians," a GPS drawing that spans the entire length of the Prime Meridian in the United Kingdom. This ambitious work involved walking and cycling along the meridian line, capturing his journey through GPS data. The resulting artwork is a complex and detailed representation of the meridian, blending geographical precision with artistic creativity.
Another significant project is "The Star of Bethnal Green," a GPS drawing created in the streets of London. This work involved tracing a star pattern over the urban landscape, highlighting the contrast between the rigid grid of the city and the organic form of the star.
Techniques and Tools
GPS Devices
Wood primarily uses handheld GPS devices to record his movements. These devices are equipped with high-precision sensors that can capture data points at regular intervals, allowing for the creation of detailed and accurate drawings. Over the years, Wood has experimented with various models of GPS devices, each offering different levels of accuracy and functionality.
Software and Data Processing
The raw GPS data collected during Wood's journeys is processed using specialized software. This software allows him to visualize the data, clean up any inaccuracies, and convert it into a format suitable for artistic presentation. Wood often uses GIS software to overlay his drawings onto maps, providing context and enhancing the visual impact of his work.
Artistic Philosophy
Jeremy Wood's work challenges traditional notions of drawing and cartography. By using GPS technology, he transforms the act of walking or cycling into a form of mark-making, blurring the lines between art and everyday activities. His work also raises questions about the relationship between humans and their environment, exploring themes of movement, space, and geography.
Wood's GPS drawings are not just representations of physical journeys but also metaphors for personal and emotional experiences. Each line and curve in his drawings represents a moment in time, a decision made, or an obstacle overcome. This adds a layer of depth and meaning to his work, making it both visually striking and intellectually engaging.
Exhibitions and Recognition
Jeremy Wood's work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. Some of his notable exhibitions include:
- "Lines of Desire" at the Tate Modern, London
- "Mapping the Invisible" at the MoMA, New York
- "Cartographic Imagination" at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London
Wood has also received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to the field of digital art. His innovative use of GPS technology has been recognized by both the art and tech communities, earning him a unique place in contemporary art history.
Influence and Legacy
Jeremy Wood's work has had a significant impact on the field of digital art and cartography. His pioneering techniques have inspired a new generation of artists to explore the creative potential of GPS and other digital technologies. Wood's influence can be seen in various forms of locative media art, where artists use location-based technologies to create interactive and immersive experiences.
In addition to his artistic contributions, Wood has also been involved in academic research and teaching. He has given lectures and workshops at various institutions, sharing his knowledge and inspiring others to explore the intersection of art and technology.