Although art did not find me again until later in life, I did come across this photo of me painting as a young girl. I was surprised to see it because I had no recollection of that day. However, my dear Aunt Marjory was an oil painter and she must have set this easel up for me to paint among the trees, on our farm.
Biography
Jane Dickson is a mixed media painter and collage artist. She was born and raised in Southern Ontario, discovered her passion for intuitive painting while living in British Columbia, and currently makes her home on the prairies of Alberta.
Although she hails from a family of makers and musicians, she believes grief was the catalyst for her own artistic awakening. After many years immersed in the natural health field, it was art that transformed her life during a difficult time. She now encourages others to experience the joy and healing power of creative expression.
Jane has exhibited her art in galleries and juried shows in three provinces. She has participated in Art Battles and guided painting playshops. Her work has been featured in ArtAscent Journal, and in a book collaboration with her sister. Her art is enjoyed in homes and offices across Canada and beyond.
When not painting, she writes poetry and delights in photographing the faces she finds in Nature.
Artist Statement
I believe intuitive painting is a process of collaborating with the unseen to access magical realms.
Dreams, imagination, journeys, memories, synchronicities, visions, a sixth sense and more play a part, as the piece unfolds.
My art is not a version of that which is seen, but rather an unveiling of that which is ordinarily not seen.
An inquisitive nature, and a fascination with all things mystical are at the centre of my creative endeavours.
Since my first encounter with intuitive painting, I have been awed by this fascinating process. The mystery and anticipation of what the next painting will reveal provides my inspiration.
I start by creating an abstract base with acrylic paint. I continue layering, mark making, and playing with colour until something recognizable appears. Eventually, faces and figures begin to form in the painted background, and I feel drawn to develop the narrative.
Using a variety of media the story comes to life. This method of painting without a plan allows my imagination to run wild, and invites the creative spirit to guide my hand. By not censoring what shows up, my paintings can become portals to transcend the limitations of ordinary reality.
I title each piece and write poems to accompany some of the paintings. However, I am thrilled when a viewer connects to a piece and finds their own meaningful message in my work. These surreal stories are a joy to create, and I hope the viewer is transported to worlds that intrigue and delight.
I also photograph Nature Spirits - the faces and anthropomorphic animals I see in tree bark, clouds, fire. Some of these images can be seen here.