June Artist of the Month
Born among the bustling streets of Boston, Janice traded city life for the serene beauty of Maine in 2004. She has been painting the enchanting forests ever since. As the proud Board President of Gallery 302 in Bridgton, she blends her love for the arts with the community's creative pulse. She is owner of The Studio at Two Chimney's Farm and teaches oil painting classes at Gallery 302.
An oil painter by day and a shepherdess by night, Janice finds inspiration in the personalities of trees; each one a unique character. Her artistic journey has taken her from drawing and painting studies at MECA, University of Southern Maine, to the romantic streets of Florence at the Sacred Art School, where she learned to capture the work in hues of oil.
When she is not wielding a paintbrush, you'll find her surrounded by her three dogs and two majestic horses, all of whom never fail to bring joy to her life. Janice and her husband John are proud caretakers - a true menagerie of love! A dedicated Red Sox fan (the faithful kind), she also enjoys pleasure riding and gardening. The only thing that grows faster than her plants are her dreams.
You can see these paintings as well as others by Janice during her window display dates of June 1st through the 13th.
In her own words, get to know Janice some more
1) What inspires your work right now?
I am exploring the mysteries of the forest. Love the long shadows and sun light patterns that are constantly changing.
2) What is your favorite piece?
I created an oil painting of Lisbon rooftops. I took many photos in Portugal. This rooftop piece is one where a peacock landed on the wall to add a whimsical touch.
3) What artists influence you?
Dutch masters are my favorite. Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl" is my all time favorite painting. Also love Cezanne's work. I have also been inspired by Ian Roberts and Dan Graziano.
4) What do you hope viewers feel or take away from your work?
I hope my serene landscapes will provide a brief escape from the daily grind.
5) What is one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
As a registered occupational therapist for 45 years, I worked with autistic children in a hippotherapy program in Massachusetts. Hippotherapy is a therapeutic treatment that utilizes the movement of horses to provide individuals with disabilities a sensory and physical experience.
You can learn more about Janice and see some other paintings on her bio page HERE.