I recently visited Jane at her amazing Lyall Bay studio—talk about an inspiring workspace! I was keen to meet Jane in her creative space and learn a bit about her artistic journey. I put a few questions to Jane and gained an amazing insight into her art world.
View Jane's Limited Edition Print Collection >>
Jane's light-filled art studio in Lyall Bay, Wellington
What inspired you to become an artist, and how has your journey evolved since then?
I was always creative right from the get go. I used to paint rocks and give them to my mum. Words felt confusing when I was little, so making a gift always made me feel special. Watching my mum receive a gift from me and her positive response was priceless.
Can you describe your artistic style and the techniques you commonly use in your work?
Over the 30 years of creating paintings, my artistic style has evolved significantly. As creators, we must invest time and focus in developing our unique voice. In the art world, there's often too much borrowing of ideas, but if you dedicate your life to your practice, your style and personal voice will emerge and become remarkably strong. It's crucial to nurture and trust in your voice's worthiness. Techniques and approaches to the work stem from this process, and by pushing myself every day, new discoveries will unfold.
Limited Edition Fine Art Prints by Jane Blackmore
What themes or subjects do you find yourself drawn to the most in your art, and why?
I've never made political or social commentary through my art. I never assume that I know enough about these things to portray an adequate interpretation of what has happened in the past or present. I am simply inspired by the New Zealand landscape and nature. Gardening is something I love, so this feeds all my floral works. I feel spiritually connected to nature and the energy and beauty it holds when I paint.
Floral Delight, limited edition print
Could you share some insights into your creative process? How do you approach starting a new piece?
I find that the less I try to control what I want to produce, the better the result will be. I can imagine that playing music would feel the same way—a type of unfolding of imagery or sound that hasn't existed before! It's pretty exciting. I think in simple terms of palette and feelings, and the rest evolves.
My Constant, Limited Edition Print
Are there any particular artists or movements that have influenced your work?
I think New Zealand has a number of living artists who are really interesting. For me, it can be the simple application of paint that makes a painting sing. Gary Currin, John Walsh, and Clive Kelly are creating incredible emotive works, but to be quite honest, I don't delve into much research or reading. I'm very much into working in my own paint bubble.
What role do you believe art plays in society, and what message or emotion do you hope your art conveys to viewers?
I sell my work directly to the public, as well as having wonderful galleries representing me. The reason I sell work directly is because I love to see how people respond to my work. I never know how my paintings will affect someone, and that is the absolute beauty of witnessing it. It opens people up; it forces them to look at why they are feeling a certain way. I mean, I do ask the hard questions; I'm very straight up. But I think it allows people a space to express themselves. THAT'S GOT TO BE GOOD FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH and quality of life.
Lyall Bay Vista, Limited Edition Print
Can you highlight a few of your favourite pieces and explain the stories or inspirations behind them?
Each work has to be a favourite in a way, just so that I am happy to put it out into the world. I mean, there have been some works that have blown me away, and I've thought, "Geez, who made that? It's awesome!" My paintings always have something special happening within them. People see their own special thing in each work, which is really important, and in a way, it allows the painting to do the work, to reach out to the right person.
How do you see your art evolving in the future? Are there any new techniques or styles you're eager to explore?
Because I am so driven to paint, I feel confident it will lead me in the direction I need to go. I do think that in the next few years, I may need to immerse myself in a new landscape. A geographical change is something my creativity is really hungering for. I think the South is calling!
Thanks Jane that was illuminating and it sounds like we may be seeing you down this way in the near future. I look forward to that!
View Jane's limited edition print collection here >>