An ITV Creates Collaboration by Jason Wilsher-Mills | Artist & Judith Hope | Puppet Maker

Our artist for April is Jason Wilsher-Mills, a multi-disciplinary artist, who creates art using digital technology, 3D printing, as well as traditional painting. Jason has collaborated with Judith Hope, a puppet maker for theatre, film, festivals and events.

The lockdown, and subsequent isolation it has caused, has had a negative impact on the nation’s emotional wellbeing because of the absence of human interaction, as we are told not to touch, hug or embrace. Through this piece of art, Jason and Judith propose to remedy this by creating a fun, colourful and beautifully constructed puppet sculpture - which will serve as an antidote for this lack of human intimacy. The work celebrates our need to hug those we love, to show that we care through embracing and human contact.

Jason came up with the idea of the arms and hands, as they best represent humanity, which he tries to reflect in his own practice. Jason and Judith were able to use the puppet movement, to communicate simple Makaton sign language – demonstrating positive affirmations such as ‘I love you’ and ‘friends’. The addition of the heart, and the simple stroking motions of the moving hands, will also clearly demonstrate the meaning of the piece to those viewers who are unfamiliar with Makaton.

This ident is a clear message of positivity and hope, in the form of a highly colour avatar that viewers of all ages can enjoy.