Jan Lehde – June Artist Spotlight

Oceana is on view from June 1st to 30th, showcasing works from nine Malcolm Island artists, each exploring the ocean’s beauty, its inhabitants, and the intricate relationship between the sea and our island community. Throughout the month we’ll be chatting with each artist participating in our latest summer exhibition.

Below is our first a rapid fire Q&A with Jan Lehde:

What prompted you to start creating art?

My creative journey began with drawing and photography when I was a kid. I was influenced by my dad who was a photo-journalist, and hobby painter. I loved creating with Nature’s abundance from rhubarb leaf hats, to mud body paint, then making myself a mermaid’s tail for our kid’s neighbourhood parade from a paper shopping bag. 

What were the inspirations for your art piece?
The beaches, tides, seaweed and weather surrounding Malcolm Island.

Can you tell us about the materials you worked with?
Watercolours and pastels, pen and wash.

What’s your favourite style of work?
I florish creatively with inspired, loose, and colourful scenes. I let the painting emerge from a soulful place of connection with Mother Nature.

What would you say to an aspiring artist?
If you want to make art do it; find otheres to do it with in a supportive, curious way. There are no mistakes in creating art.

Thank Jan!
Below is one of her artworks, on display.

Above photo: Jan Lehde

On view

Click below to see a video of the exhibition’s reception, the artists, and the art on view. If you’re interested in purchasing any of the works on display, pleace reach out to us at info@sointulamuseum.ca by text or calling 250-230-9650, or contacting us through Facebook or Instagram. Thank you to all of our artists, and Jim Blohm (videographer) for putting this lovely video together.