We’re excited to introduce you to Vancouver abstract artist Jeanette Jarville. Her contemporary abstract paintings are absolutely gorgeous. Enjoy the interview!
Vancouver Artist Jeanette Jarville
What’s the main inspiration for your art?
I would say my main inspiration is self actualization. I have always had an inner drive to create. A need to express what I envision, to take what’s in my minds eye and make it a reality for others to see.
What is the biggest goal you try to achieve with your art?
I strive to create artwork that is authentic, compelling and meaningful. To achieve a style that is unique to me. Work that is contemporary, has depth, powerful lines and effortless movement with a strong emotional element.
What’s your favourite thing about being an abstract artist?
It is the most challenging way I have ever painted. It is an unknown journey every time, consisting of play, growth, challenges and excitement. A way of painting that has freedom of choice and endless possibilities. I enjoy painting spontaneously from imagination, taking risks and pushing myself into new territory. I respond and react to what’s happening in the moment, with experience, intention and quick decisions. You often hear a painter say that the work speaks to them and tells them what’s needed next. That back and forth dialogue between art and artist is truest within abstract art.
Why abstract art and not other mediums? Have you always created abstract art or did you start out creating other styles?
I didn’t set out to become an abstract painter. My work has evolved to become what it is today through years of experimenting, playing, researching and developing a style that truly inspires me to keep creating. I am classically trained and still occasionally paint representational work in oils. I was a successful stylized landscape and figurative painter through the 90s and 2000’s with my work being in 17 galleries. I believe that experience has strengthened my latest body of work.
If you could describe your art in three words, what would they be?
Bold, Sensual, Expressive
What’s one thing people might not know about you and/or your art journey so far?
I am also a mixed media sculptor, (woodwork, glass, metalwork, clay, fabric, found objects) and maker of creative furniture. Combining my painting and sculpture is something I am currently working on.
Did you always know you’d be an artist or how has your art journey progressed?
Yes, I have always known. I was labeled as the class artist since kindergarten and excelled in art throughout childhood. I began classical oil painting at the age of 11. I graduated high school with an art scholarship to the renowned Emily Carr University of Art in Vancouver, BC, and was awarded 4 more scholarships for the mixed media painting and sculpture I was creating there. I also took the opportunity to further my studies of classical painting and sculpture as an exchange student at The Academy of Fine Art in Berlin Germany. After receiving my BFA in fine art I began painting full time, showing in exhibitions and getting gallery representation in Canada and the US. Over the years my work has become larger and more abstract. I now focus on expressive figurative, landscape and non representational abstracts and mix media sculpture.
In your opinion, what’s the most important personal characteristic needed to embark on a career as an artist?
Perseverance. You have to have tenacity and desire to keep working on your dream.
What advice would you give up and coming abstract artists?
Have fun! Do it for the pure enjoyment of the process. Surround yourself with people who are positive, inspiring to be around and supportive. One of the reasons we create is to express ourselves, to be able to share it and discuss it with others, so finding or joining a group that embraces who you are and what you do is important.
Do you have any favourite podcasts or books that you love and that have contributed to your journey as an artist?
I am an avid reader of all kinds of ‘how to’, and personal development books. I listen to Ted Talks and podcasts on the same. One thing I have really been enjoying is viewing online virtual and video tours of the art fairs and contemporary art shows going on around the world. It is never as good as seeing the shows in person but it’s better than not seeing them.
What’s your most fulfilling and enjoyable experience as an artist so far?
The ability to give back to the community through my artwork. Whether it is with public art for people to enjoy or through donations to auctions and fundraisers where the money raised from my art can make a difference to a charitable cause. That makes me happy that I am able to contribute in my own way.
Where do you see yourself and your art in 5 years?
I have been painting larger and I love it. I will continue working on my painting series that I have developed, as well as mixed media sculptures. I am working on expanding my gallery representation across Canada and Internationally and would like to see my work shown in major art fairs in the future.
What do you love most about abstract art?
Do you have any favourite quotes?
To learn even more about Vancouver abstract artist Jeanette Jarville and see more of her paintings, head to her website here.
To discover even more British Columbia abstract artists, click here.
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