"Both the world around me and the world of myth and imagination are endless sources of inspiration."
One beautiful summer in Golden Gate Park, I fell in love with painting nature. The year was 1987. I was mesmerized by the microscopic play of light, shadow and color. The world stood still in its amazing glory, and to be completely absorbed in this for hours was an awesome experience. I've been painting ever since.
To this day, capturing life energizes and infuses my work. In my travels or at social gatherings I often bring out a sketchbook to capture the moment. By good fortune, I've traveled to many places - Egypt, Turkey, Cuba, Croatia, Indonesia to name but a few. Women washing clothes in a spring in a tiny Spanish village, whirling dervishes in Istanbul, a musician at an open mike - each drawing evokes a story and preserves a memory.
I've had the privilege of teaching art lessons to children in my studio, figure drawing and portraiture to adults, and high school art for several years. I've served as an artist in resident at many schools, including the Bene Moré School of the Arts in Tacoma's sister city, Cienfuegos, Cuba.
Murals are frequently on my agenda. Between 2005-2009 I completed a series of forty-eight murals featuring 1950's storefronts for senior living facilities in five western states. The murals contain 3-D elements such as awnings and doorknobs. They enliven the environment and are of therapeutic value to Alzheimer's residents.
Learning, for me, is a lifelong experience. I've sampled many art styles and movements, and have recently discovered that classical realism hits a deep chord. My still life paintings contain a co-mingling of natural forms and collectable art objects. The play of light and shadow, textures, patterns and color inspire me to create works that are alive, rich and exciting. I hope the viewer will absorb a sense of the beauty and joy that inspires me.
Artist in Residence
Cienfuegos Cuba
Janice teaches private and small group classes in drawing and painting. Please email her for more information.
