My inspiration for these pieces comes from my recent adventures in Portugal and Sardinia over the past couple of summers. Whether snapping photos or sketching, I find myself immersed in the beauty of these places. Last summer, I had the pleasure of using a professional camera lent by my partner, Roy, and was captivated by the vibrant colours of the cities we visited, especially the Mediterranean charm of Sardinia.
Back in the studio, I sift through my photos, reminiscing about the serene spots and unique atmospheres that inspired me. Reflecting on my past travels, I find that my perspective and emotions evolve over time. Yet, through my paintings, I aim to capture the essence of these places by playing with colour and light, offering a fresh interpretation.
'The Conversation' Latest Paintings Gallery
If you want to see the Worthing Open Art Exhibition that is on at the moment then pop round the corner to Worthing Museum & Gallery (details below) and see my selected painting Porto Musician pictured below. This is currently not available on my website at the moment but will be at a later date.
Porto Musician Acrylic on canvas Jane Denman 2023
Joining me at the exhibition are four other talented artists from Sussex, making it a delightful showcase of local creativity. The exhibition wraps up on Saturday, March 30th, coinciding with Easter Saturday. Come by and immerse yourself in art!
I will be at the gallery on:
Tuesday 19 March all day, morning of 26 March and afternoon of 27 March.
All of the work is for sale and debit card facility is available.
Parking (limited parking at Waitrose up the road) but a multi-storey car park is a couple of minutes walk away here
Train station: Worthing Main train station, walk about 15 mins
Bus: 700 stops on the sea front with short 5 min walk to Colonnade House
Colonnade House is at the end of a pedestrian shopping area which has some lovely cafes for a bite to eat, I like the Grape Tree
Not able to make the exhibition? Arrange a studio visit by contacting me here
]]>Framing paintings or photos has, for me, been just a little bit stressful in the past. I have stood in the framing shop and been totally overwhelmed by the range, size and then the price of the frames. So from this experience I thought I would put together a little guide for choosing a frame before you even get to the framers.
I have been painting watercolours lately and these will need a lovely frame with glass to set them off.
Most of my paintings are on canvas so don't generally need a frame or glass.
What if you want a framed smaller painting on paper but have no idea about how it will look or whether or not the size will be right for your space.
Firstly consider where you would like the painting to go in your home. Do you have a space in mind? Will it be with other pictures? I tend to choose colours in the room that it will go with say cushions or some small item. Is the space too big for the painting?
Think about the final framed size, which is usually bigger than the actual painting.
Will it be in a bright sunny space? Watercolour paintings do best out of direct full sun, they can lose their colour. This can take many years but just so you are aware. Watch out for framers that want to up the cost of framing with non-reflective glass, this stops everything in the room reflecting in the glass. Usually it isn't too much of a problem but it can be an asset so something to consider.
STEP TWO: FORMAT
What format is the painting is e.g. is it a landscape format or a portrait format? (portrait is longer in height and landscape is longer in width).
My January 2024 watercolour series, such as Autumn Afternoon, pictured here, is painted in portrait format.
The actual painted size is 25 x 35cm (before framing) it has a white border (not shown here adding about 3 cm to each side) which makes it easy for a mount to be placed over, more on that later.
Below you can see that I have added a mount (the white area around the painting) and it has a slim wood frame in black. Here I can show you a variety of frame colours using my computer.
Things to consider: width of frame (here is 1.0cm wide) and the mount or mat as its also called, is 7.1cm around the painting so increasing the size considerably, great if you need something a little larger
(This mock up for the frame is done in my computer app)
Most good framers would probably have a smaller selection of frame colours than illustrated here.
What is interesting to see is how the mount (white area) totally changes how the painting looks. Framers will ask you what colour mount you would like and then show you about 30 different whites! Choose cool or warm whites by placing a bright white next to the others and then to the painting.
Here's what the painting looks like with a completely different frame but with no mount/mat. The frame comes right up to the painting contrasting with the colours, it can make it pop! This is a good choice if you don't want a larger framed painting.
So here are a few examples of frames and mounts with the same painting in different spaces.
The verticals of the two doors either sides accentuate the vertical frame and painting
The painting has focal point for the bed and has structure around it with the wall detailing closing in a big wall to almost frame the painting
A huge wall, admittedly rather lovely colourful scene, does dwarf the painting this space probably would look better with a larger landscape piece, what do you think?
Again I feel this frame is too small for the space, even though the colours work well with the room, adding two more similar sized paintings either side would balance it. All down to personal taste!
Space can make a massive difference to the impact of the painting, is the space too big for the painting? Is it the focal point for a room? Will you be adding more photos/paintings? Luckily after it is framed moving paintings around is super easy.
Go off piste... think about a bigger space for a small piece, putting a larger mount around the piece would make the whole thing look bigger and often gives more light to a painting by adding white around it. Does the painting have enough strength to pull off a big space? Will a stronger frame help pull it off?
Choose your own frame for a painting at home using the following steps below. Decide what works best for you before you go to the framers. You will be able to then show the framers what you want, look through various mounts (take the painting with you) and get your painting framed.
Follow these simple steps on my website:.
Alternatively, send me a photo here at my email, of the space/wall you wish to hang your painting in and I will provide you, at no cost, with suggestions of frames with or without mounts so that you can get this sorted with the framer.
Happy framing!
Jane
p.s. let me know what you think about any of the framing ideas in the comments below or get in touch
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January for me is one of those months that I am not keen on, light levels are low and with very little sunlight it feels like it can drag on for ages. I am normally quite creative this time of year and although I haven't been in the studio for a bit I have been working on plans for new paintings through doing drawings on the kitchen table.
Because its been pretty grey here for a long time with plenty of wet weather it is always nice to bring some cheer in and get the creativity flowing using colour. I have made a start working with watercolour paints, being inspired by Brighton Draw (a life drawing collective, based in Brighton) and their fabulous models.
These small watercolours will possibly go towards creating a larger painting but at this stage it is just a case of enjoying colour and seeing what happens.
Not all of the drawings will turn into larger paintings but keeping open to the possibilities is always in the back of my mind. There will be lots more drawings to come before I commit to the large canvas that has just been ordered.
Hope your January is a calm, reflective one. Let the light come in with slightly longer days until we get to spring. If you are little impatient, like me, you can count the days off with my 2024 calendar
Do subscribe to my newsletter if you want to keep in touch with future updates, its lovely to have you here.
best wishes Jane
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Heres the link for my blog post about what followed on at the Museum; a talk titled 'Female Voices Exhibition' where they talked about my piece.
Above is my piece accepted 'Paint Sketch - Porto Musician 1' This piece will not be available to purchase here on my website until after the exhibition, however it is available to purchase at the museum.
The selection of 200 was taken from over 600 entries. It was a packed private view night and really interesting to see the diversity of paintings and sculptures from creatives all over Sussex. If you get a chance its well worth a visit as It's a little like seeing a creative snapshot of our county.
The exhibition runs: Saturday 2nd December 2023 to Sunday 14th April 2024 with free entry. All works are for sale.
See the Worthing Museum Website
]]>I am super excited about sharing this with you. I have been thinking of how I can create a small shop for quite sometime now. I am always interested in colourful, patterned objects and have been searching for a very high quality company that could do this.
Finally I have found a brilliant company in London that works with my website, so I thought now is the time to realise this idea. All of their products are beautifully made and I will be able to show you soon on video.
Being able to design products with my images on is amazing!
The overall idea of my tiny online shop is to offer for a limited time various products - probably limited to 5 or 6 with my designs on. This is an online shop only and so only available to order online and not at exhibitions.
So to launch my first collection I have opted for this gorgeous tote bag with one of my earlier floral paintings on 'Yellow Lilies'. It folds up and is a very generous size
Then I went experimental and as I am always looking for my reading glasses (who isnt!) I thought it would be fun to design a case for them so that they are easy to find in my bag, this is with the painting Mayas Dream on. It comes with a tiny glasses cloth with the painting on, click on the image to see the shop
I also have my calendar with all my large scale paintings on, check this out too, available until mid December only. The other designs shown will also be on the website until then, after that they will disappear and new ones will come for 2024
See the new shop here!
I hope you enjoy my small collection, let me know any feedback you have or suggestions, thank you for supporting me as an artist.
]]>This autumn I am launching prints on canvas in two sizes, the larger one is the same size as the original acrylic painting, Jardim Porto. Read all about my inspiration in an earlier blog post here
Apologies for the format of the video!
As is with all of the prints I source which also include my limited editions, the new prints on canvas are professionally printed to very high standards and all made in the UK.
The prints on canvas are stretched onto a wooden frame and is ready to hang. Choose how deep you would like your canvas too, slimline or slightly more chunky, you decide what would suit your space. it's so easy and it is hard to tell its a print from the original painting.
I will be showing you in detail one of the new canvas prints very soon - watch this space!
Benefits of buying artists prints
1. **Affordability:** Artist prints on canvas are often more affordable than original paintings. This allows art lovers to enjoy high-quality artwork without breaking the bank.
2. **Accessibility:** Many artists choose to create prints of their original works, making their art more accessible to a wider audience. This means you can own a piece of art from a favourite artist even if the original is out of reach.
3. **Variety:** Artists may produce prints of various sizes, colours, and styles, giving buyers a wide range of options to choose from. You can find prints that match your personal taste and decor.
4. **Durability:** Canvas prints are typically durable and long-lasting. They are less prone to fading and damage compared to paper prints. Properly cared for, they can retain their quality for many years.
5. **Texture and Appearance:** Canvas prints mimic the texture of an original painting, providing a more authentic and visually appealing experience compared to flat paper prints. The texture can add depth and character to the artwork.
6. **Customisation:**offering two sizes of the print to fit your space This can make your print feel more unique.
7. **Investment Potential:** While not as valuable as original works, limited edition artist prints can appreciate in value over time, especially if the artist gains prominence or if the edition is particularly sought after by collectors.
8. **Supporting Artists:** When you purchase artist prints, you're supporting the artist's work and career. This can be especially important for emerging artists trying to establish themselves in the art world.
9. **Convenience:** Canvas prints are typically ready to hang, which makes the process of displaying art in your home or office more convenient. They don't require framing or additional preparation.
10. **Gift Giving:** Artist prints can make thoughtful and unique gifts for friends and loved ones, allowing you to share your appreciation for art with others.
11. **Personal Connection:** Owning a print of an artist's work can create a personal connection to their art and the creative process, even if you don't own the original.
In summary, buying artist prints on canvas can be a cost-effective way to enjoy and collect art while benefiting from the durability, accessibility, and aesthetic appeal of canvas as a medium. Additionally, it supports artists and can offer potential investment value, making it a worthwhile choice for many art enthusiasts.
Also new to this autumn is my new 2024 calendar that features one of my paintings for each month. There are also as some postcard packs (with more to come soon). Check out these here
Do sign up to my newsletter for more info
I hope you like this small collection as much as I am excited about it! Do email me if you have any queries
Jane
Credit: Roy Matthews for photography of stills www.rjmphotography.com
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This long painting was a massive project for me. After a cold winter in the studio painting the three panels were installed in this beautifully landscaped small garden in Worthing. I started the project in August 2022 with a deadline for spring 2023.
The mural measures 4.8m x 60cm so is a panoramic. It was designed by the client to 'break' up a long space and to be a centre piece for the newly planned low level garden. We met just after they had moved in and the space was bare, a blank canvas and they were keen to have a theme - the 'Seaside'.
You can read the previous blog post about how I started the mural here
We had many meetings throughout the winter mainly discussions about the drawings and how the three pieces would fit together and flow, I really enjoyed collaborating with the client (a retired architect). The panels themselves were bespoke, had a huge amount of preparation so that they can live outside in our very changeable weather.
It was a pleasure to do these paintings and I love how they fit into the garden setting, also a first for me! Thanks to T & C for this fantastic opportunity and also to Roy for photographing the paintings .
]]>Join me and see my latest painting 'Jardim Porto' in this group exhibition. See the painting here. Pathways, curated by Lauren Hayes, has invited me along and I am delighted to be able to show this very new painting for the first time. I am alongside some wonderful artists from Sussex including Lauren who does some amazing cut paper sculptures which are simply amazing.
Pathways is part of the Artwave Exhibition, an art trail that is based over in the Lewes/Newhaven area. There is lots to see and it is a fun day out to go and discover all of the artistic talent in this area. All of the artworks are for sale.
'This year you can discover work by more than 1000 creatives, and visit upwards of 180 venues, with free-to-visit exhibitions in private homes, studios, potteries, windmills, railway stations, farms and churches, from Ditchling to Herstmonceux, Newhaven to Danehill' and of course Seaford!!
If you wish to meet me there please email me at art@janedenman.com, I am not at the exhibition all of the time, thanks
Literally behind The Crypt, you will need to download this app for parking Ringgo
You can also find other car parks or try the seafront, not sure whether how you pay for parking there.
The train station 'Seaford' is a few minutes away, change at Brighton for most directions
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Hello! In June, I embarked on an exciting journey to Porto, Portugal with a mission to find inspiration for my latest series of paintings. Armed with a borrowed camera from my travel companion, Roy, we spent an amazing 10 days capturing the vibrant spirit of this colourful city. This time, we planned our trip strategically, considering the weather after enduring scorching temperatures during our previous European visit. This experience made me reflect on the importance of seeking shade, both in our travels and in our lives.
Discovering Porto's Hidden Gems:
Planning a city trip can be challenging, but Porto surprised us with its abundance of shady gardens scattered throughout the city. We chose to stay in a leafy area, which made our photography days effortless, and we were lucky to enjoy a pleasant 24°C. Porto's captivating charm and warm hospitality made it an ideal destination for capturing moments that would inspire my artwork.
View the Painting in the Gallery
The Significance of Weather:
You might wonder why I'm so fixated on the weather, perhaps thinking it's because of my Englishness and our reputation for obsessing over it. However, it has become clear that heat will play a major role in our future. Seeking out leafy areas, especially in urban landscapes, offers a sense of tranquility and solace. In the Jardim da Cordoaria, we found respite from the bustling city under the embrace of magnificent trees. The garden had a relaxed and cool ambiance, with inviting bars and cafes—a luxury often hard to find when exploring a city.
The Journey of Artistic Exploration:
This latest painting marks the beginning of a new artistic endeavour that is still in its developmental stage. My focus is on the pursuit of shade, capturing the essence of calm and serenity found within these leafy retreats. As autumn unfolds, I'm busy working on new ideas and concepts for this series. Soon, you'll have the opportunity to acquire high-quality prints, including canvas prints, of Jardim Porto which will be a new addition to my collection.
Porto, with its captivating beauty and welcoming atmosphere, has left a lasting impression on my artistic journey. Through my paintings, I aim to convey the significance of seeking shade, not only as a practical consideration but also as a metaphor for finding moments of tranquility amidst the challenges of life. Join me as I continue to explore this theme and capture the essence of serenity in my upcoming works.
The Online sale starts Saturday 6 May - 29 May, sign up to my newsletter at the top of the page and receive the discount and newsletters or send me an email
This collection is inspired by dance and movement and some more abstract paintings titled 'colour and protest' which I wrote about here
All of the Paintings on Paper Collection are on large beautiful pieces of heavy watercolour paper, painted with fluid acrylics which give a vibrancy and a type of watercolour effect. They are all signed and are sent in tubes ready for you to frame at home.
The images below are shown framed to inspire, with different frame colours that can accent a space for the painting. Personally I think the portrait paintings look good on a slightly smaller space that is contained, a hallway for example
Here are my paintings on show this year, you can buy at the open house or online. Alternatively email me and Reserve your painting
If you are planning a trip to see the Open Houses, you can gain an oversight of the variety of trails (of which Fiveways is just one) here
If you are on my mailing list then an invite to our private view is coming along shortly! You can sign up too, see the top bar
To see our venue based in the Fiveways Trail at 61 Sandgate Road, Brighton, click on the image below for more details about opening times plus there is a map.
Getting there: parking is becoming more tricky but its not impossible, it would be best to park and walk a trail if you have that in mind.
Train: Ask for London Road Station (neighbouring the main Brighton Station) or for Preston Park Station which is nearer the Fiveways Trail.
First time in Brighton? If you are walking, then be prepared for some steep hills! Not to worry many venues have lovely teas, coffees and cake to help you.
Plan your particular trail: Some of the trails cover a wide area, I recommend starting at the top of hills and working down to the houses, its a lot of fun.
Can you buy the artwork? Yes I would say all houses have artwork made by local artists for sale. There is a big variation of price ranges, in our house it is from under £20 to up to £2,000. We always have an annual prize draw in our house with a small artwork being awarded each weekend.
Nowadays you can usually pay by card but most accept cash. Make a note of any particular artwork you like by asking if you can take a photo and then jot down which house it is in, especially helpful if you are seeing lots that day.
What to expect: Gardens are often also open as well as the houses, artists are living in their house during the festival so often open up some rooms and cram themselves into the rest of the house for May! Not all have wheelchair access, but some do, these are marked on the venue link and the map (see above). You can expect an informal and friendly welcome, artists love showing their work and meeting people who have come especially to see them. You are supporting the artist directly. For me it is lovely to meet and greet people, usually after long hours in the studio over winter.
You can pick up the main Artist open house brochures with all the trails in or if you are in the area, the Fiveways Artists Open Houses brochure - in any house along the way. You will see the Open Houses as they have a big banner outside of the house.
Hope you can make it along, but if you can't you can also look at any of the paintings online in your own home, just go to the gallery, pick a painting and click view in your room.
Jane
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I have three planned exhibitions for 2023 and the first is in May in Brighton. I am taking part in the annual Artist Open Houses, Fiveways area. I have participated for over 20 years in this lovely event and it is usually the first exhibition of the year.
If you are new to the concept of Open Houses you are in for a treat. Artists open up their homes for four weekends, as part of the wider Brighton Festival (2nd largest to Edinburgh). You can follow various open house 'trails' that are spread throughout Brighton. It is a lovely way to spend a day and everyone is super friendly and willing to show you the artists work and their home!
For me, it is a final end to preparing paintings after being in the studio so much it is so nice to meet and greet visitors to the house. This year my host, Frances Doherty has invited some super artists with jewellery, ceramics and origami. More details will be in my newsletter.
The other exhibitions are planned for Colonnade House in Worthing in September and the Brighton Art Fair, also in September. Colonnade House is a group exhibition with fellow artists in a beautiful gallery space in Worthing. Details to follow for dates etc.
The Brighton Art Fair is back, after major renovations to the venue at the Corn Exchange in Brighton. It has been six years since the last Brighton Art Fair so will be exciting to be there. I will be showing new paintings and am looking forward to this one.
Lastly my studio is always available for studio visits if you wish to come and see a painting, its always nice to welcome people into my working space and have a coffee. If I am not in your area then you can also view any of the paintings at home, just click on 'Try In Your Room'.
Sign up to my newsletter above on top bar for all updates
best wishes Jane
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I have done all sorts of online prizes with the Tiny prints collection, it has been a lot of fun and many of you have collections of the prints and are adding to them, others have nipped in there quickly to buy the original.
Back in 2021 I decided to promote them online to raise money for the charity Refuge and amazingly my online community really stood behind this idea. raising nearly £500 when I had only hoped for a fraction of that.
I exhibit the Tiny Paintings at Brighton Open Houses and other in person exhibitions. Every now and then I add one or two to the collection, just painted in January are 'Charleston' and 'Blue Monday'.
Both originals and prints measure just 150 x 105mm and are available all year round to purchase online
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If you enjoy opening up my email newsletters, follow and support me on social media or you have bought paintings from me then thank you! It means more than I can say, being a creative is often quite a solitary business and when I first started trying to promote myself online it felt like a huge hurdle. It hasn't all been plain sailing and I have had to learn the hard way sometimes.
Here are all the 2022's sold pieces
Three years ago I decided I wanted to try and make my online presence work, that meant that I had to learn how to market myself and learn everything that went with it.
I took up all the free things that were available to learn online, the internet is amazing for this, followed other artists that seemed to be making it work online and studied what I could learn from them. Gradually I finally became more confident with how I could hatch a plan to get my paintings online and seen and ultimately for people to come to my site and like them enough to buy them.
Twice a year I do my online sales for my newsletter subscribers, spring and autumn. The next one is in May 2023
There is never a guarantee that any of this would work but gradually building up a community of people who enjoy my work was a revelation which then turned into sales online! It was such a good feeling.
Fast forward to 2022 and I can see that sales are building but just as importantly connections with people online who are coming to view my work is growing too, So if you are reading this then that is you!
THANK YOU!
x Jane
Join me if you are new to my website and subscribe to my newsletter for exhibition news and my special subscriber offers - link is at top of page
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I have chosen two framed acrylic paintings, 'Quiet Time' and 'Lilith' and a slightly larger one 'The Kiss'. I will also be showing the Tiny Paintings festooned in colourful lights.
It will be a very welcoming and warm show both visually and from the welcome of the artists. I love popping over each year to see all of the lovely crafts and covetable handmade gifts and hopefully get a homemade mince pie and mulled wine.
Dates are:
10/11 December (I am at the studio on Sunday 11 December)
check out the times and location here
The weekend has lots of super high quality contemporary crafts and is always full of Xmas cheer with mince pies and mulled wine. I am showing a couple of pieces, The Kiss and Quiet Time alongside my Tiny Paintings collection.
Here are the details I hope you can make it along. I am there on Sunday 11 December
I have been wanting to run a print sale for a long while. My prints are ordered here Print Gallery and delivered straight to your home.
My mailing list loves this print! Gathering Yellow which was taken from the original acrylic painting,
]]>In spring 2022 there was a really big discount on originals on paper, this is quite a rare thing for me to do but I love getting my work new homes and it frees up space for new work I am doing.
I have also raised money for various charities in the past, one for Refuge in lockdown through the sales of Tiny Prints and Paintings and the other for Motor Neurone Association, again my newsletter subscribers have also supported these too which is amazing.
I have been wanting to run a print sale for a long while. My prints are ordered here Print Gallery and delivered straight to your home.
My mailing list loves this print! it is consistently the one that is most viewed and liked! It is called Gathering Yellow and was taken from the original acrylic painting, now sold. The print is super high quality, printed on German Etching Paper and by a very reputable art printing company. You pay online and it is shipped straight from ordering to your door, worldwide!
50% OFF WITH THIS CODE: PRINTOCTOBER
AT THE CHECKOUT FOR THESE TWO PRINTS - ENDS 31 OCTOBER
PLUS FREE SHIPPING UK AND INTERNATIONALLY FOR ALL PRINTS
This October I will be sending out details to my newsletter subscribers a super offer on Gathering Yellow - the large size which is 47 x 64cm and
Morning Light which is 56 x 77cm so slightly larger than Gathering Yellow
I hope that you can join my newsletter, sign up if you haven't already (find this at the top of this page)
Jane
]]>I have lived by the sea most of my life and feel very lucky to live so near to it but also to have grown up with the idea of the 'seaside'. The British seaside in summer is always busy in Brighton, people come from London for the weekend to party and sit on the beach and eat ice creams.
I now live further west along the coast and enjoy a big sandy beach at low tide, a quieter side of the seaside, and have taken up all year round sea swimming. Living next to the sea has become part of me and so it has been interesting to think about what the seaside means in visual terms.
The project is unusual, the size of the 3 paintings measure in total 4.8m x 60cm so very long and thin. I have started to work on drawings and the computer to get a rough idea of what it could look like.
Here are some of the figures that will be in the mural, these are painted at the actual size in acrylics.
Unfortunately my studio is just 30cm too short to accommodate the full length of the drawings, so I am having to go slightly around the corner!
The three paintings will link together to make one long piece which will be situated above a newly landscaped area full of mainly foliage plants (not yet started in the photo)
Early stage draft drawing idea which is changing all the time as I work on it more
The next phase is for the panels (specially treated wood on aluminium frames) to arrive. Then the drawing can be transferred to the panels. It is many hours work ahead but very enjoyable.
At the present time there are about 23 or so figures in the whole piece! If you would like to follow along with the progress you can on Instagram @janedenmanartist
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A big thanks to everyone who dropped in to say hello or take part in the mini painting lessons down at East Beach Studios in Worthing, it was such fun.
I had a lovely space to hold watercolour lessons and lots of people took advantage of sitting out of the heat (the 2nd heatwave!) to paint, some of them for the first time.
In the first week there was a cake and fizz event which was great fun with music, gorgeous macaroons (thank you Marianne) and fizz, a super way to end a summers day.
It would be lovely to have the space permanently but in the end I was there for 3 weeks cutting it short as a big painting commission has come in and I am now spending long days back in the studio constructing, more details to follow about that.
What an amazing social August it was, thank you if you made it along, shared time with me down there and made it really special.
Join my newsletter if you are not already subscribed, lots coming up for the autumn
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For the month of August I am holding a pop up gallery of my paintings at East Beach Studios in Worthing. The studio is right on the beach not far from Worthing Pier and nestled in amongst the arty area next to Coast Cafe, read my restaurant and cafe recommendations that are walking distance from the studios
]]>It is a lovely spot with plenty going on. Lots of other studios have their doors open
OPENING TIMES:
TRY YOUR HAND AT WATERCOLOUR PAINTING!
You can also join me for a short lesson in watercolour painting throughout August. I run my own art classes for adults in Worthing called Skyblue Art Classes Lessons are on:
Please text/call me 07779 499294 for full details and booking.
TRAVEL INFO
August in Worthing with sunny weather can be busy for parking, however there are plenty of car parks
LOCATION
Beach Parade, East Beach Studios, Worthing BN11 2FG
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As well as the Open House I launched my Works on Paper Sale with 60% off, this will run for a little while longer just for newsletter subscribers.The discount is applied at the checkout only with the Discount code (in the newsletters). Do get in touch if you wish to have 'reserved' put on any of them.
View the Latest Paintings Here
Enjoy this fab feature: you can experiment with viewing all of the paintings on your own wall at home, go to the painting you wish to view, click on 'Try in Your Room' and follow the instructions.
If you have your eye on a particular painting I am always happy to put 'Reserved' on any of them on the website, you can text me on 07779 499294.
I had a little fun setting the paintings in this room, here are the paintings that now have new homes
Hampstead Swimming Pond - Sold
Paint Sketches (Left to Right) - True Feelings, Waiting (not listed on website) and Social Media Dance - all Sold
Urban Warrior, Acrylic on Canvas - Sold
Chill Out 2 - from the Works on Paper Studio Sale - Sold
Cold Spring - Acrylic on Canvas now has a new home
May weekends at the Open House has been a really lovely experience so far and there is still one weekend left 28/29 May, 11-5pm at 61 Sandgate Road Brighton, if you can make it along.
The Open House has been busy, we had a lovely lively Private View which we had missed so much due to the pandemic in the last couple of years. Lots of people have been doing the 'Trail' and popping in to see all of the super artwork. I have really enjoyed my 22nd year!
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For all of my email subscribers to my newsletter I am giving a fabulous 60% off Paintings on Paper (unframed). These paintings are all originals and are signed on the front. Read my blog post to find out more about your discount!
]]>These paintings are originals, signed, acrylic on paper. The larger paintings measure 76 x 56 cm, they look amazing with a mat and frame, you can see a few examples of how I have set them below. These are real statement paintings.
Each painting has have a border around so that a framing mat can sit right up next to the painting. I think white or black slim frames in wood look great but why not check out the frame viewing at home, before you buy, see step 2 below!
All of the paintings in the Paintings on Paper gallery are included in the studio sale. All you have to do is subscribe to my newsletter (see the top bar) and you will be sent the discount code.
The discount will be applied (only at the checkout) you will not see the discount in the gallery - only when you apply it at checkout so email subscribers read on!
For all of my email subscribers to my newsletter I am giving a fabulous 60% off Paintings on Paper (unframed).
These paintings are all originals and are signed on the front. They will be posted to you in a sturdy tube and come with a Certificate of Authenticity.
After ordering online or by email, your painting will be packed in the tube and posted to you ready for your frame of choice with your local framers. Once they arrive lay them flat or take to the framers and they will do the rest for you.
Contact me if you have any questions at art@janedenman.com or give me a call or text 07779 499294
p.s. scroll down to see the short video
Jane
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This April I am preparing for the month long exhibition in Brighton - The Artists Open Houses. Four weekends in May packed full of art and the whole town is buzzing with The Brighton Festival (2nd largest in the UK to Edinburgh festival).
Later on in August I am also holding my own pop up studio event in Worthing.
For both events you can check out the details here
For the Open House in May I will also be doing an online special offer- this will focus on my works on paper such as Midnight Dance and Morning Light, click on the link below to view all of the Works on Paper collection. These paintings are originals, acrylic on beautiful watercolour paper and look amazing framed. In order to find out about this do sign up to my newsletter at the top of the page.
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The finished painting was unexpected to me, it always is. At the beginning of a painting there is a loose idea and through the act of painting it is the journey I love so much. Eventually the painting is finished and I stand back and observe it. Did I do this? All I remember is that journey....]]>
"Awareness is the greatest alchemy there is.
Just go on becoming more and more aware
you will find your life changing for the better in every possible dimension.
It will bring great fulfilment" ~ Rajneesh
I love this quote by Rajneesh about Alchemy, it resonates with me as every time I get down to using paint I feel I am becoming more and more aware. Being aware and so in the moment is all we can do.
I have called my latest painting Alchemy, the initial inspiration came from photo references of a woman working with flour or grain. I love the focus of the pose and the suspended flour in the air, it tells a story of one moment. I decided that I would translate this into colour being thrown into the air and set about trying to create this in a spontaneous way.
I began by sketching out the pose in pencil and then trying to find an underlying structure. I love doing this, it gives a feeling of solidity for me.
The plan for colour was tricky but I knew that if I stuck to a limited palette range it could possibly work. I chose turquoise, pinks, blues and some warm tones.
When you see this painting from a distance there are several underlying structures or shapes for example a triangular shape that contains the figure and a type of cross (coming from the head down to the burst of colour on the left and the link to the right. This is not apparent unless you are looking for them but most of my paintings have this in them.
The Alchemist - view more details here
Combining an abstracted background was where I left the original drawing and took it into another level, I really enjoyed doing this it is absorbing looking for shapes and spaces that are created by adding paint in nearby areas. I think a frame for this painting would look gorgeous so I have a few examples of various colours here where you can also view the painting up close.
The finished painting was unexpected to me, it always is. At the beginning of a painting there is a loose idea and through the act of painting it is the journey I love so much. Eventually the painting is finished and I stand back and observe it. Did I do this? All I remember is that journey....
You Are an Alchemist: make gold of that - William Shakespeare
The Alchemist will have its first outing at the May Brighton Open House in May, more details to follow about that. I am also now open for home studio visits if you would like to see the painting or if local I can drop it round for a weekend. Do contact me on my mobile below if you wish to view the painting
https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/alchemy
https://www.azquotes.com/quotes/topics/alchemy.html
Jane Mobile: 07779 499294
]]>Self-taught or art school?
I would say both, I went to art school to do a BA Fine Art degree but previously to that I did such a lot of life drawing in order to build skills, I became quite obsessed with it
If you could own one work of art what would it be?
The Execution of Lady Jane Grey by Paul Delaroche which is in the National Gallery. When I first saw this painting it took my breath away, the size and scale of the composition is incredible. It has such drama and narrative. I love seeing it time and time again.
How would you describe your style?
To me the paintings are full of narrative that can be read in several ways. I enjoy weaving tenuous ideas into my paintings but ultimately I am hoping to achieve a serenity and calmness in the work. The paintings are figurative in style, loosely painted and are quite stage like, I was very fond of Piero della Francescas groupings of figures. My paintings are largely based on a framework of drawings and then pieced randomly together to create a narrative. This collaging together of figures then presents its own challenges of colour, space and freedom.
Is narrative important within your work?
Yes it is, for me there is incredible power when placing figures in groups or on their own. Each pose has its own narrative and suggestion so the research for lots of poses takes a lot of time especially as I am never sure of what will work in the final piece.
I find also that my narrative for a painting can be read in very a different way by others.
Who are your favourite artists and why?
One of my favourite artists is Lita Cabellut a Spanish/Dutch female painter who paints large scale figurative paintings, the paintings have such a depth and passion to them that is hard to describe. I admire her for her hard hitting approach with paint and tackling whats important to her with regards to culture and religion. A really influential and important artist.
Another artist I am intrigued by is Ian Francis who has a dark side to him but who creates other worldly scenes for his figures. I enjoy seeing his groups of figures who seem to be battling with a demon. They are for me, part computer sci fi quite structural and full of narrative.
What or who inspires your art?
Seeing art exhibitions in London usually fuels me up and I can paint feeling inspired for ages after a trip. I go to galleries with a sketchbook and note any random ideas I have as I am wandering around. I get a real buzz too at looking at colour combinations of virtually anything, interior decor photos on Pinterest, my own photos and sketches which I now have so many of but are a type of library that I can go to when I need something to collage into a painting. I find too that when I am working solidly on paintings I am getting new ideas coming in for more paintings.
Are there any recurring themes within your work and can you tell us about them?
I keep coming back to a ‘stage’ type of theme. For example I was painting dancers for a long while and once I started to create my own stage settings for them it felt right. The table series are also very staged with figures creating a strong narrative in a restricted almost forced space.
Where’s your studio and what’s it like?
My studio is at the bottom of our garden, it is a renovated old apple store. It has a high pointed roof which is quite unusual and it was in quite a state of disrepair, with a leak that used to drip a lot whilst I painted. Since we had it renovated it now has a big glass front panel and roof facing north which I am constantly in awe of and it is a totally transformed space to paint in.
Do you have any studio rituals?
It is a real sanctuary in the studio so I try not to answer any calls or have any music, I tend to work all day with no breaks except for lunch and until the light goes in the winter.
What are you working on currently?
My next big painting of 1m x 1.50 which will be a table scene. The ideas are still forming but it may have lots of figures around a table after a party or it may be just a table in light after everyone has gone. The idea is based on the pandemic restrictions and how gatherings of people were allowed and then not but it still has to be developed yet.
Where can we buy your art?
Mainly online, I am a self representing artist so all of my paintings are on my website with prices and can be bought online. I also exhibit whenever I can.
What are your ambitions?
I have big ambitions with my painting progress. I see it as a journey of progress. I love being a painter and each challenge it brings, there is so much to explore and I get so excited by possibilities it is hard to fit it all in. A solo show would be amazing!
Links:
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It's been a while since I ventured into the studio, other things in life sometimes take over but just pottering in the studio, doing a little tidying and other jobs gets me in the groove which is great on such a grey day. I find that just going around and reorganising art materials starts a process which feels very familiar - the start of the creative process. Just organising reds, yellows, blues into rows next to my glass paint palette feels right, I started to think about small plans I have had in my mind for a while and after about an hour I abandoned these and get a small Paint Sketch canvas out with some colours that I have no idea what to do with. This random selection is also part of the creative process - the not knowing. Artists are often very good at this as when you start out there is no guide book as to what will happen or appear... All the while I am doing this I am conscious of the nagging feeling in my head - the light is very low and I don't have that many hours to paint before its dark!
So, what do you do if you find these grey days to feel 'flat' and uninspiring? I can highly recommend taking up drawing or painting. Painting with colour and particularly watercolours can be a real mood lifter, colours flow and move together on damp paper in beautiful and unexpected ways. If you are curious or perhaps if this is on your 'bucket list' to try why not check out my online watercolour lessons here
If that all seems a little too much then perhaps my first ever screensaver will give you light and colour that you may be craving.
My screensaver for you is from 'Morning Light' and it gives such a beautiful light feeling. It is part of my dance series and I just love how the beautiful light on the figures gives a serene, calm effect and that instant shot of colour too.
Morning Light is also available as a print and original and can be ordered online
When you click on the link below to see your screensaver you will also be given a few 'Google'tips of how to change your current screensaver so, if you are not familiar with how to change your computer screen saver below, (I wasn't and looked them up for you) I just Googled it how to change the screensaver. Wishing you a happy and creative year to come!
best wishes Jane
]]>What I love about podcasts is that you can listen to so many diverse subjects, be it stories, comedy, in fact anything. In my case I added to my business skills which has led to me setting up my online art business (The Break Through Podcast) It was encouraging to listen to other business women and their enthusiasm for making things work, what they did and how I could start to make my dream job pay its way.
On my short list I have also included podcasts that feature interviews with other artists, Savvy Painter Podcast, is one of my favourites and then there are a few others such as one recommended by my friend about houseplants! On the Ledge...
If you have any favourite podcasts I would love to hear what they are, leave a comment below.
Have a lovely break, rest and stay well.
Best wishes Jane
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Packing and wrapping paintings is the final point of a very long journey. The planning and painting can take months so to get to the stage of sending off an order is always a lovely thing. Getting it wrapped in the studio is always a joy, I love enclosing a few little extras for the recipient.
If you are thinking of gifting a loved one with a painting do let me know I will include some extras such as wrapping paper and bows....
I am still learning how to do all of this as each size painting requires its own box, double walled and secure so that it leaves the studio for its destination in the best way.
Heres a recent review from one of my lovely clients:-
With all original paintings a Certificate of Authenticity is included, I also like to include some of my cards and if the painting is a large one then I will always source the correct wall hanging hooks. Best of all I love delivering paintings as I then get to see where the painting will live and to meet clients.
With the prints I don't actually get to wrap any as the order goes straight to the printmakers and they send the beautiful prints out themselves in lovely reinforced envelopes or tubes.
To get the paintings shipped out to you I use FedEx couriers who pick up the painting from me and then get the delivery off to you quickly and securely. It can be helpful if you get in touch with me to leave your phone number so that they can contact you for expected arrival time.For smaller UK items such as the Tiny Paintings I will use Royal Mail.
Painting (not Prints) Orders over £100 for the UK are free!
I hope that this holiday season gives you plenty of rest, joy and health.
Jane x
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See the short video of me unboxing the print here
How to enter:
ONE WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on Sunday 7 November at 6pm GMT One prize winner will be randomly selected. One entry per person, thanks …Good luck!
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To see the collection and sizes in the gallery click here
]]>The process of my prints start with the original painting being photographed by professional photographer, Roy Matthews, who also happens to be my partner. Roy has photographed for some really big names such as the BBC, BT, Unwins, CB Richard Ellis, M&S, John Lewis, Royal Academy of Arts & Sweatshop. He has all of the amazing equipment needed to take brilliant photos which is needed for top quality prints.
The limited edition prints are fulfilled by a company called the Print Space. When you place your order here in my Print Gallery, it is then printed by the Print Space in London on my requested paper. This paper, happens to be my favourite, is German Etching Paper and has a lovely luscious feel to it which make the colours resonate softly but with intensity. Once your order has been placed here online the print will then head straight to you (mine was very speedily dispatched)
All you need to do is sort out a frame for it. I am happy to help with any framing decisions for any prints or paintings, I love pouring through all the options!
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