Jake (B. 2000, Gillingham) is a British artist. His practice is concerned with debunking the idea of fitness, work and exercise. He explores this by integrating his own use of the gym and physicality. This is articulated through performative, sculptural and installation-based works which use humour, tongue in cheek, and slapstick comical gestures. Wood also makes props for his performances. In addition, consider his practice inherently intrusive, where he intrudes into different kinds of zones and environments.

Wood is interested in having one foot in one camp, and one in the other. Furthermore, the work deals with ideas around intentionality and his capacity for action. Wood explores the real world by performing in the public domain, including the gym or street. He aims to use transgression as a rule-setting exercise that tests the tolerance levels in these environments. Through performance methods, he seeks to push the boundaries of ‘where art sits’ beyond the institution. Wood enjoys the unapologetic attitude and approach that performative work offers – Turning up to a place, doing what you need to do, and then exiting again. Creating a casualness and informality that interrupts and interferes within a space, and where the general public become unwilling participants, captured on video. He plays with this conceptually, and this sets the atmosphere for the work.

Wood exhibits regularly across the UK. Recent shows include: ‘In Search of Overwhelming Banality at One Minute Space Gallery, Athens, Greece and @Disturbance residency with Ugly Duck, London. In addition is a recipient of the HomeLiveArt Reignite Artist Development Bursaires. Jake is also involved with art organisations which include CRATE in Margate and Art in Romney Marsh.

INSTAGRAM: @jake_wood_artist

WEBSITE: www.jakewoodartist.co.uk