Seven questions: Meet Fresh Squeezed II artist Jack Fields

Last year, the Morean mounted a Florida-centric art exhibit, appropriately titled Fresh Squeezed. This year, they've brought it back and we've reached out to the artists to learn more about them. Meet Jack Fields, whose work involves puppets, film and all kinds of good stuff. As you're about to read, he also has a sly sense of humor. 

How did you hear about Fresh Squeezed II?

My friend Brian Feldman suggested I apply. He is a conceptual performance artist and participated in Fresh Squeezed [and in CL's GASP! — remember "The Skill Crane Kid"?]. He used to act in my plays when I first began creating live theater.

How has Florida informed your art?

I think it is all about the people. The artists in this state are immensely talented and skilled. When I think of Florida artists, I think of Hannah Miller, my longtime collaborator who helped lead me through many successful projects, including this current one. Without her logistical and construction skills this project may not have happened.

Talk to us about your puppets. Specifically, who is Godrick?

Godrick? He is a friendly outsider, a wanderer from space who is stranded on earth. He doesn’t know exactly how humans work, but he does his best to fit in. Many of my characters share this quality.

So, you consider yourself a puppeteer?

I do, and why not? I prefer the term puppet artist though. Puppetry has been a major force in my life for over 10 years.

Happy Memories is a puppet film. Tell our readers about the process of bring puppetry to film.

Working with puppets will increase the difficulty of one’s production. Something that a human can do easily, such as picking up a cup, is a matter of technical significance for a puppet. Nearly every shot can contain some subtle trick or challenge that must be overcome.

Where is home?

This planet is our home. Let’s be nice to it.

What’s the one thing about your art people don’t always pick up on right away?

I think if a person is focusing their attention on my work, they are experiencing everything they need to. It is a confluence of mind, eye and intent.

This article appears in Feb 22 – Mar 1, 2018.