Meet The Artist Q&A – Jane Wilson
What are you inspired by in your art and what medium do you work in?
My main body of work is inspired by my pride in being a Salopian. It’s a celebration of the people and places that hold special meaning to me. By combining digital technology with traditional techniques, I create images that evoke collective memories and bear witness to the evolving landscape of the county. Through my innovative use of colour and layers, my contemporary style reorients the familiar, offering a fresh vision of the town and the people who have shaped my life.
Where did your love of art come from?
My love of art blossomed during my secondary school years. I often found myself drawn to the art room, spending countless hours there with my best friends. We worked diligently, but our time was also filled with fun and laughter. This vibrant, creative environment began to draw me away from my other passion, sport, as I became more captivated by the world of art. An inspiring teacher played a crucial role in this journey, nurturing my enthusiasm and encouraging me to explore my artistic potential. The combination of their mentorship and the camaraderie with my friends was instrumental in deepening my appreciation for art.
What is your favourite thing about being an artist?
My favourite thing about being an artist is the connections my illustrations create with people. I love when people share their memories and what the depicted places mean to them. The feedback I receive, knowing that my work brings joy to others, is incredibly fulfilling. It’s especially rewarding to see that my art is accessible and that people return for more. These interactions and the happiness my art brings to others are what I cherish most about being an artist.
What are your top tips for young artists?
Remember to be brave and confident in expressing your unique artistic vision, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth. Enjoy the journey of artistic development, learning from setbacks and criticism to refine your skills and approach. Seek inspiration from various sources and practice regularly to improve. Connect with a supportive community of artists for encouragement and feedback, and set goals to stay organised and motivated. Stay curious, keep learning new techniques and styles, and above all, believe in your talent and passion for art – persevere through challenges and celebrate your progress along the way.
Who are your favourite artists?
When it comes to my favourite artists, I am inspired by the work of many talented individuals across various media. However, my absolute favourites are my university friends Claire Pirie, Sally MacDonell and Hayley Worrall. We completed our ceramics degree together at Bath and have remained close for the past 30 years, continually supporting and encouraging each other. It has been fantastic to track each other’s journeys, and we regularly get together for weekends dedicated to art. For us, the making and thought process are just as fascinating as the outcomes of our work. Our enduring friendship and shared passion for art have been a constant source of inspiration.
How long have you been involved in the Secret Severn Art Trail and why is being part of it important?
This will be my second year. I received an invite to apply from Jan Parks through my social media posts. I felt excited and also nervous to exhibit in a gallery alongside many established local artists. The exhibition gave me a huge boost personally, it led me to meet lots of like-minded people with a shared passion for art in our community.
How successful was last year’s event for you personally? Tell us about your collaboration with the designer of Craven Dunhill and how it has led to some of your art designs being put on tiles?
During the exhibition, I had the pleasure of meeting patrons who had purchased my artwork. Their return to the gallery for my session as an attendant allowed us to discuss my creative process, inspirations, and their personal connections to the local area.
Following the exhibition, I was approached by Nic Atherton, the Business Development Manager at Craven Dunnill, Jackfield. We have since embarked on a collaborative project that promises to integrate my artwork into a new contemporary range they are developing. Exciting times! I look forward to seeing where this journey takes my art next.
What will your involvement in Secret Severn be this year? What will you be exhibiting?
This year, my involvement in the Secret Severn exhibition will primarily be as an attendee due to my full-time teaching commitments. Despite my limited availability, I’m committed to participating actively during the weekend sessions. I look forward to engaging with fellow artists, patrons, and visitors, sharing insights into my creative process and discussing the inspirations behind my artworks on display.
This year my goal is to showcase a new body of work that merges my digital illustrations with traditional media like paint and printmaking. I will be immersing myself in creating pieces that allow me to get hands-on and explore the tactile qualities of different mediums.
Why is an event like Secret Severn important to the regional arts scene?
An event like Secret Severn is crucial to the regional arts scene for several reasons. It provides a vital platform for local artists to showcase their talents and gain exposure within their community and beyond. By bringing artists together, the event fosters networking opportunities that can lead to collaborations, mentorships, and shared learning experiences.
Moreover, Secret Severn serves as a source of inspiration and encouragement for artists, nurturing creativity and pushing artistic boundaries. It celebrates the diversity and richness of the local arts community, showcasing a wide range of artistic styles and mediums.
For someone who is new to Secret Severn, what are your top tips for visiting?
Make the most of your experience by planning to spend ample time there. Engage directly with the artists to gain insights into their work and creative processes, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the artworks on display. Take advantage of the event’s location by exploring the local surroundings, which offer additional attractions beyond the exhibition itself.
How can people find out more about you and your work, and how they can connect with you on social media as well?
To find out more about my illustration work and connect with me on social media, you can visit my profiles on Instagram and Facebook. I go by the name Lizzistration on both platforms. I regularly share my latest artwork, insights into my creative process, updates on upcoming events and projects. Feel free to follow me, like my posts, and reach out with any questions or comments. I look forward to connecting with you and sharing more about my passion for illustration!