Janice Bartels

Member since: 2017

Biography

What is your earliest childhood memory of creating art?
I can’t remember a time that I didn’t love color either on paper or fabric. As a child I would create weird abstract designs and color them with the brightest crayons. I didn’t like coloring in color books and staying “in the lines”. I was more interested in creating my own designs. I would make the designs and cut them out. I was the kid that loved hanging out in the stationery store with all of the cool papers and cards. 

How did you start watercolor painting?
In 1976, my youngest son went to kindergarten and I began looking for a creative outlet. I discovered a watercolor artist and teacher in the town where I lived and took private lessons from her for about 6 months before moving. However, due to life circumstances, I stopped painting until 2016 when I was inspired and encouraged by Janet Judson.

Why do you create art?
It provides a quiet place for my mind; I can escape and not think about anything but what is in front of me. It’s a place of rest for thoughts.

What is your most important artist tool?
A spray bottle as I love watching the color work on the paper when I give it a little spray.

Is there something you can’t live without in your studio?
A good light and big table.

Is there an element of art you enjoy working with most? Why?
Currently, I would say both watercolor, collage and acrylic as I am in such an early stage of my development that I haven’t decided exactly what I like most because everything I learn I seem to love. I’m looking forward to learning about charcoal and pastel, but I only have so much room in my brain, so I’ve avoided adding too many techniques to my learning curve!

What inspires you?
Museums, art galleries, beautiful photographs, art books, workshops and being in the company of other artists who are willing to share techniques.

How do you know when a work is finished?
When I really don’t know what to do next. However, I do know that sometimes it is not finished so I am still learning as to what it means to be “finished”.

How do you overcome creative blocks?
By spending time in my studio just putting paint on paper or reading from some of the watercolor books and meditation.

What is your dream project?

To be able to be an “urban sketcher” and to create a fun sketch book of travel paintings.

Name three artists you admire.
Watercolor artists Karen Knutson, Jennifer Stone and Barbara Sparks are all great teachers.