Janet Skea RI

Statement

My subject matter is still life. I love the quiet delights of everyday things, folded or rumpled cloth. I also explore less conventional ways of composing objects and cloth. My aim as a painter is to produce a finshed, two-dimensional work. I disapprove of conceptual “art”.

Methodology

I had a strict, traditional training and I work very conventionally. In paint in watercolour on paper, oil on canvas, and tempera and gouache on board, all with brushes. I use as limited a palette of colours as possible. Drawing is all important.I sketch first, and then draw out the work before painting, working from my sketches and objects in front of me. I tend to work on one painting at a time, but I have a long list of ideas, and up to four still lifes set up in my studio. These might change slightly before I get around to them. Sometimes I will dismantle one totally and start anew.I do not approve of simply displaying a concept and not painting it in the classical way.

Bio

1947 Born on 15th September, Johannesburg, South Africa

1964-68 B.A. Fine Art Stellenbosch University

1979-83 B.A. Open University, UK

2002 Elected to the Royal Institute of Painters in Watercolours

2004-06 Taught watercolour at Penzance Art School

2007 Moved to France