I recently ran a contest on Fine Art America and Jan Andersen submitted her work. I loved the vibrant colors and dreamy quality of her art, so I decided to feature her on my blog. It’s a pleasure to introduce her to you!
Whirlwind Of Colours In Nature’s Dream available here.
I sent Jan some questions to answer so I could learn more about her. I’m sharing the interview below.
How did you begin creating art?
I have been creating art since I was old enough to hold a pencil. Much of my childhood was spent creating pictures for friends and I developed a particular interest in drawing photorealistic portraits. I won a few competitions, including a trip to Kenya when I was 13, which was organised by the World Wildlife Fund. However, I never believed that I could make a living from being an artist, so I just continued drawing portraits as gifts and favours, including humorous caricatures that summed up people’s personalities. Instead, I entered a career in PR and marketing, subsequently becoming a freelance writer; something I still do today.
Since 2002, when I tragically lost my eldest son, Kristian, to suicide, I have drawn portraits for other bereaved parents and families free of charge. If I can offer some small comfort in creating a portrait that captures the essence of someone’s personality, then that is worth far more to me than any monetary reward.
What is your favorite medium and why?
I have always loved coloured pencils and also acrylic, because of their vibrance and the fact that you don’t have to wait for layers to dry. I’m not sure I would have the patience to work in oils, but I might try soon and surprise myself!
Welsh Lake Sunrise available here.
What inspires you to create your work?
Nature is one of my therapies and I have always found inspiration in the natural world, even if I then create an abstract or surreal piece of art. As a keen hiker, I often develop ideas whilst I am out walking. I have a particular love of mountains and trees. Anything that evokes strong emotions inspires me, whether that is people, animals or scenes from everyday life.
Pembrokeshire Beach Sunset available here.
What does your art mean to you? What do you hope it means to others?
Art means everything to me. I cannot imagine life without it. Along with nature, as mentioned before, it has been a lifesaver and I cannot stress the benefit to anyone of creating art. You do not need a particular talent to derive pleasure and comfort from drawing or painting. Above all, I hope that my art gives pleasure to other people, whether it is a personal portrait, a landscape or an abstract piece. Everyone interprets a piece of art differently, so I love it when people see things in my work that perhaps I haven’t seen myself.
What is something you’d like us to know about yourself/be remembered for?
I am neurodivergent and highly sensitive with a quirky sense of humour. My mission has always been to try and help people where I can, especially those suffering from mental health difficulties. I would like to be remembered for my kindness, creativity and humour.
Wine For Two By Vibrant Fjord available here.
If you’d like to see more of Jan’s amazing work, you can find her profile here. I know you’ll enjoy what you see!
Thank you for being a guest on my blog, Jan! It’s an honor to have you here!