About

Jane’s unique style of art has developed over many years of practice. Below, Jane answers some frequently asked questions about how she first developed her love of painting, where her inspirations arise from and how it is to be an artist.

What is the best part of supporting yourself as an artist?

Firstly, that I work at what I love. Secondly, sense of accomplishment in having created something unique - solely seeing it through to completion from nothing and having it emerge and give pleasure to myself, and others. Flexibility to work when and how I want to for my own needs and that of my children is also a huge bonus. Having in the past juggled work and children in the holidays and through illness, I appreciate very much being able to work from home.

... the worst part?

It can be a very lonely, isolating form of work. And at times painting goes from being pure pleasure and joy of creating, to a job that I need to do in order to live. A large degree of discipline then becomes very important. Living from selling paintings does not provide a regular weekly pay cheque either and takes time to become accustomed to.

How long have you had to work towards being able to support yourself through art?

Since I was eleven years of age. That was when I first dreamt of a career as an artist and starting seriously practicing towards that goal (29 years). I have always since that age drawn and painted whatever interests me.

What are you most proud of on a personal level? On a professional level?

That I have succeeded in attaining my goal in being an artist and put no ceiling on where my art can take me in the future. Also that I can make a living from what I love, many friends comment that they are still searching for their passion in life and don’t see my work as work as such.

In the journey to where you are now (professionally) were any times harder than others? Hurdles of a professional or personal nature.

There was a transition period eleven years ago where I was unable to work solely as an artist and needed to work in an office as well. This was a stressful time in that I would work evenings and through the night in order to build up art sales so I could work full time as an artist. These intensive working hours of course created problems in my personal and children's lives. In hindsight I can see that I am and always have been a very determined strong person. Focusing on my goal and working towards it. Ten years ago I was able to give up my office work relying on my paintings and prints for income.

Who have been your mentors? Why? How did they support you?

My Art teacher at 13 years of age was Selwyn Wilson at Bay Of Islands College. He had a great gift in being able to encourage and inspire his students. He saw my potential then and later in my mid-twenties he became my friend and mentor. Giving positive criticism of my developing painting style and being excited for me in every new milestone I achieved. He was a beautiful person, supporting myself and many other people.

Do you have anyone to assist you in developing your career?

Many people have given their support and encouragement over the years, through the various stages of my work ... especially my good friends. Also the galleries of course give me a foundation to my painting name making me a known commodity in the art world in New Zealand.

Who inspires you?

I like Rita Angus' working style very much, with her clean-cut colour and view of New Zealand. Though what inspires me most of all is the beauty of New Zealand itself, which I feel compelled to recreate and express my joy of what I see around me onto canvas.

What are your dreams?

That I become an inspiration to others. That they to can take a risk, and work towards their own dreams, whatever they may be, our mind creates our world.

... your fears?

When I first commenced my work as a full time artist there were the obvious fears of not being able to support myself and my children from the proceeds of my painting sales. These have dissipated with time as my confidence and painting sales have grown.

Where do you want your career to take you? Or perhaps that should be where do you want to take your career? Or more in general ... where do you see yourself (professionally) in two years? Five years?

I would love in the future to go overseas, paint, study and learn new working techniques. I really put no ceiling on where my career will take me, as to the direction I go in, I look at all opportunities to broaden my horizon. One thing that I know for sure is that I will paint as long as I am able, it is an inherent part of myself and passion in my life.