Janet Blackwell

A FEW THINGS ABOUT THE ARTIST

1. What do you do when you’re not making art? (Day job etc...).

I am a retired special education teacher who worked with children with autism. I now enjoy my retirement with my husband Thomas.

2. Why do you make art?

I became an artist after retiring from 30 years of teaching. I love working with oil pastels and the direct contact with the art. Creating art is very rewarding and enjoyable.

3. What inspires you?

I am inspired by the great Masters especially Matisse and Picasso. I love color and abstract expressionism. I especially love doing portraits.

4. What/who are your influences?

I have been mostly influenced by Matisse and his use of color in portraits.

5. If you could meet anyone dead or alive who would it be?

I would love to meet Van Gogh since he is my favorite artist.