Artist Spotlight: Jill Leman RBA

Could you briefly introduce yourself and your artistic background?

Aged 16 I enrolled at Colchester School of Art, where I was tutored by John Nash and Edward Bawden. I went on to study Graphic Design at the Central School of Art & Design in London, now Central St Martins. My inspiration comes from the people, places and objects around me and my aim is to give each painting its own life. My work has been shown in many mixed exhibitions, including the Royal Academy of Arts, Ruth Borchard Self Portrait Competition, Royal Society of British Artists and the Royal Watercolour Society where I became the first female president in 2017. 

What appeals to you about painting still life? 

I like painting still life but I need the objects in the still life to hold memories for me, I need a relationship with them. I tend not to 'set up' a still life but I might hold the objects instead and place them individually into the painting. 

Could you tell us a bit about your artistic process? 

I use my sketchbooks and do a lot of drawings - sometimes these trigger off paintings.

Could you tell us more about colour being a starting point for inspiration?

Colour is so important to me and I remind myself when I work that I am supposed to be in charge but it is actually the painting that takes on its own existence. I try to put something into the work I do that reflects back to the viewer. 

What has been a highlight of your artistic career?

Artists need the occasional highlight to keep going and every now and then it happens. Having paintings accepted for the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition is always a thrill and of course it's always nice when someone loves a painting enough to buy it. I was very honoured and delighted when I became the first female RWS President in the Society's history (founded in 1804).

Do you have a favourite piece you are exhibiting at the RBA Annual Exhibition 2025 and why?

My favourite painting in this year's RBA exhibition is 'London Window'. It's the view from the room where I work and in between painting I spend a lot of time looking out of the window. I have painted this view many times, usually with some of my favourite objects on the windowsill. Recently the RA chose this image for a greetings card published by Art Press.