Jay Pressnell
Jay Pressnell is an artist and educator whose work regularly touches on elements of storytelling, history and community engagement. His creative practice spans a variety of mediums, from traditional painting and laser engraving to virtual and augmented reality.
Pressnell’s art is driven by a desire to preserve and visualise narratives, particularly those connected to the communities he engages with. In one such project, by interviewing key figures and using traditional materials like timber and cable reels, he crafted laser-engraved artworks that not only told these companies’ stories but also incorporated interactive elements, allowing viewers to access audio narratives through QR codes.
“My artwork has always been about creating a time capsule for an event, experience, or a particular company’s history, aiming to leave a lasting legacy.”
Pressnell’s fascination with history and storytelling has been influenced by his London upbringing and a rich family creative heritage. These personal stories have been interwoven into his art, as seen in a 2017 exhibition where he combined historical footage with live performances by his children, creating a powerful fusion of past and present.
For Jay, creativity is not just a solitary pursuit but a collaborative, community-based process. His work celebrates the importance of curiosity and connection, aiming to create art that resonates and endures for generations to come.
An artist and educator, he blends storytelling, history and community engagement in his creative work. Based in Onewhero, his diverse practice spans from traditional painting to virtual and augmented reality, all driven by a passion for preserving narratives through art.