Janice Erwin

Medium: Acrylic, pastel & mixed media

Location: Qualicum Beach

Bio:

Janice Erwin discovered her love for artistic expression with her first box of crayons. Growing up on the prairies, she always found ways to be creative. 

“I have learned that I am an observer and experience the world visually, finding an endless supply of inspiration in the world around me. Art surrounds us. I see it everyday.”

This love for creativity, developed into a passionate appreciation for the arts and a never ending quest for knowledge.  Her study at the University and College level as well as continuing participation in many art workshops with established artists both in Canada and the United States, has furthered her exploration in the realm of creativity.

Constantly in pursuit of new challenges, Janice continues to find learning opportunities, developing  her artistic expression. She finds herself torn between realistic expressions and abstract impressions. Whether rendering the intangible aspect, the look or the gesture of a portrait or enjoying the free abandonment of the abstract process, her work continues to evolve.

Sharing her knowledge and art experience with others has allowed her another level of creativity to explore. Seeing others discover the world of art has given her an even greater sense of gratification.

“ Art touches each of us in many ways and creativity has many avenues. I believe strongly in the value of artistic endeavour, whatever that might be, and in some small way, I hope that I can encourage others to experience this journey I enjoy. My goal as an artist is to interpret and express, using what I have learned to present a personal equivalent of my experience. My joy is doing. My reward is when someone else finds joy in what I have done”.

Janice, an active volunteer at The Old School House Arts Centre, maintains a studio at her home in Qualicum Beach. Visitors are always welcome.

Q & A

Can you describe your daily/weekly art practice, anything that you do differently because your studio is in such proximity?
The advantage of my studio spaces, is their proximity to our living space.  This allows me to ‘drop’ into the studio periodically throughout the day. I can spend a few minutes or a few hours.  If I am in the middle of a specific piece I will typically go into the studio first thing, mainly to assess the work with fresh eyes.  If I am between projects, I use this time to find motivation for the next.

Has this time of self-isolation changed your practice in any way. I know a lot of artists are missing things (materials, space, etc). Has this time pushed you to be more creative or think outside the box in your practice and can you give us an example?
Perhaps this period has lead me to be more introspective.  I am rethinking, reassessing and finding different ways to express subjects of interest. Sometimes this is reworking a piece that was considered done before.

What is your favourite part about your home-studio?
The set up gives me flexibility.  I have different spaces for different purposes, something that appeals since I am interested in working in a variety of ways. 

Do you have any goals of creativity for this time?

My main goal is to complete some projects that have long been ideas.  My habit it is to keep sketchbooks, containing inspirational ideas, pictures & notes about subjects I find interesting. If I see something that gives rise to an idea I will write down my thoughts about the techniques, colour choices or composition I think might work.  Reviewing these books is often a great way to get the creatives juices flowing.

Any messages you would like to share with everyone during this time?

Look at being forced to stay home as a huge benefit!  Spending time creating makes the hours pass by quickly & productivity increase. If you find yourself without the usual supplies look for ways that you can interpret your subject in different ways using what you do have on hand.  You may discover a whole new way of working.