Myra Jago

HIGHLY COMMENDED 

Reflection, 2017

Oil on gesso panel, 40 x 59.4 cm

"I make realistic oil paintings about insubstantial things. My practice revolves around symmetry, reflections and the mirrored image, where filaments of bounced light have the ability to look as real as their origin, yet remain devoid of substance. I stretch the paradox further by aligning reflections that are visible to us with that reflective state below the threshold of consciousness. These notions are carried through into making the work where oil paintings are set on smooth, uninterrupted surfaces. Process begins with canvas or panel preparation: surfaces are ‘iced’ several times with ground, causing edges to billow and softly overflow, then sanded back to a smooth finish. With the use of manipulation, photography and reflective surfaces, I stage my subjects in light-filled settings. Paint applications are
allowed to dry between layers and also sanded back, although much of this is not evident in the final piece. Reflection is a self-portrait in oil paint on gesso panel, achieved with mirrors and photographic reference. The piece was made out of curiosity – a test to myself. The reflective lower section relates to many long hours of studying my own features."

Myra Jago (b.1956), from Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin, attended NCAD, Dublin, achieving a BA (hons,2009) and MFA (Painting, 2011). In 2015, she was awarded a six-month residency at the RHA School Studios. Her 2017 exhibition 'Subliminal', on show at the Easter Snow Gallery, Naul, Co. Dublin, was her fourth solo exhibition to date. She has taken part in the past four RHA Annual Exhibitions and the 135th and 136th RUA Annual Exhibitions. Her work can be found in the State Art Collection, the Central Bank and FSAI, Deloitte, Axa Insurance and many public and private collections nationally and internationally.