Paul D Jones

While studying at the Royal College of art Paul’s alter-ego, ‘Popcornaut’, was born. Experimenting with form and material, he became fascinated by the sculptural potential of popcorn, imagining himself at the vanguard of experiments with genetically modified kernels sent into space and exploded into forms the size of houses, to be returned to earth as living structures (Popcornball to Earth). Inspired by the lyrics to ‘Looking for the Perfect Beat’ by Soulsonic Force, Popcornaut was ‘looking,’ ‘searching’ and ‘seeking’ a utopia. Ever since the birth of this pioneer, Paul’s research has focused on an exploration of the unknown; he reveals the ‘unseen’ face of 2d drawings by translating them into sculpture or assimilates opposing forces such as the natural and artificial, handcrafted and digital, and real and imagined to present a new form of reality that – like his favourite 1980s science fiction films - challenges our perception of the world and our place in it.

Paul’s key research topics include: the destructive power of nature, genetic modification, transformation, science fiction vs science fact, natural order vs technological progress, liminal space, mistakes in mark-making, self-sufficiency, South London housing estates and pre- and post-colonial Jamaica

Paul's current research is focused on:

His local area of Brixton Hill and the Jamaica of his past for ‘We’re Living in a Concrete Jungle,’ a series of prints that merge photographs of south London housing estates with lush real images and idealised postcards of the Caribbean.

DIY CRISPR kit biohackers and genetic modification for an ambitious fictional science laboratory made from carved wood that examines the delicate balance between scientific progress and natural order.