In the world of art, Janine Glanz has found her true calling. Over the past few years, what started as an occasional hobby has transformed into a daily necessity. Her art, deeply rooted in emotions, is a unique expression of her response to the world around her.
Inspired by both classic and contemporary artists, she uses a limited colour palette and fast-drying acrylic paints to capture the essence of the moment.
Join us in this insightful conversation with Janine Glanz as she shares her artistic journey and creative process.
Tell us a bit about yourself and how you got into art.
I’ve always loved painting, and over the last couple of years, it’s evolved from an occasional hobby to a daily need. Art is where I find solace and expression in this fast-paced world.
How would you describe the art you love creating?
The art I create is a transfer of my emotional responses to particular situations or activities. It’s a journey of translating what I feel into a visual medium, and every stroke of the brush is a piece of my soul on canvas.
What influences your artistic vision and style?
There are many artists whose work I admire. I find inspiration in the works of masters like David Hockney, Richard Diebenkorn, and Edward Hopper. I’m also drawn to the impressionists and some abstract expressionists and pop artists. Their diverse styles and approaches continue to influence my artistic vision.
Are there any present-day artists whose creations resonate with you and that you find particularly compelling?
Absolutely, there’s an American artist named Katherine Bradford whose work I love. Her contemporary approach and unique perspective on art are both refreshing and inspiring.
Among the various materials you engage with, which one do you find the most fulfilling to work with, and what draws you to it?
Currently, I’m drawn to acrylic paints. I tend to work quickly, and the fast-drying nature of acrylic paint, which some may find frustrating, aligns perfectly with my artistic process. It allows me to capture the essence of a moment and emotion in a dynamic way.
Can you walk us through your artistic process, starting from the initial spark of an idea to the realisation of the finished artwork?
The initiation of a painting varies. It could be an old family photograph, something I see online, or a personal situation or experience. The common thread is that each source reference triggers an emotional response in me. I often have a specific idea in my mind for how the painting will look, but that idea is just the starting point. Invariably, the end result differs from my initial vision. I’ve learned not to fight this change; rather, I trust the creative process and accept that “mistakes” often lead to the best results. My colour palette in each painting is usually limited to around four or five colours, which I mix to achieve various shades and variations.
Could you share some insights into your current creative endeavours and projects?
Currently, I’ve been going through my late dad’s old slides, which has given me great source material to work with. It’s a sentimental journey that’s inspired me to explore new artistic directions. These slides offer a glimpse into the past and stir a well of emotions that I channel into my work.