Jan Evans
Melting Ice
Sample; cotton scrim, Iron-on Vilene, acrylic paints with areas of foil, hand and machine stitch. 30cm x 25cm
Highnam
Calico, scrim, black muslin, paper, lead, emulsion, ochre and machine embroidery. 90cm x 60cm
The Brown Hare
Calico, scrim, paper and acrylic paints. 40cm x 30cm
Moonlight over the Forest
Cotton scrim, machine embroidery, emulsion and acrylic paints. 95cm x 50cm
Listening for Owls
Calico, scrim, paper, emulsion, acrylics and machine embroidery. 76cm x 76cm
Sketchbooks
Two small sketchbooks showing paper collage developments and machine embroidery samples
Artist statement
My work reflects the passion I have for the woods, hills and valleys of my local landscape on the edge of the Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire. The year’s cycle from Spring’s new growth to the dormancy of Winter and the unpredictable British weather provides me with ever-changing inspiration. Sunlight, or moonlight, on the land creates shadows and reveals form and texture especially noticeable during the winter months, my favourite time of year.
The geology, history and folklore of the area have influenced my work. The use of locally mined ochres and colours have enriched my palette, their subtle earthy tones combining well with the mixed media I employ.
Layers of strata and layers of meaning, many aspects of landscape are symbolic or a metaphor for events experienced during a lifetime. Symbolism and pattern are recurring features in my art and textiles which help me to express visually the connection I feel towards nature and the landscape.
My sketchbooks not only contain sketches and observations but also record thoughts, developments and experiments, and are a personal reference for future work. I prefer to use basic fabrics such as calico, scrim, muslin and papers which can be transformed by paint, print, layering and stitch. Hand and machine stitch play a part in defining images, creating movement and adding texture.
I continue to work and teach in my own studio as well as exhibiting in local galleries and also I enjoy taking part in the Forest and Valley Open Studios scheme each July. Meeting and talking with artists from different backgrounds and demonstrating techniques to visitors is a satisfying way of sharing my love of art and textiles.
I am a member of the Embroiderers’ Guild, the Forest Artists Network and Group Purple.
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