JanaNicole’s work is a beautiful melding of style, subject and substance. Rich and evocative, Nicole’s work shifts from the spiritual to the comical in surprising twists of aesthetic fate, resulting in a style that brims with charm and charisma. Here, we spend a day in the life of JanaNicole, from talking turkeys to home-cooked dinners.
MY ALARM GOES OFF
…no alarm. old age wakes me up at 6. Or the cat wanting food. Or the turkeys talking.
Tea, definitely Tea. If possible, two cups in bed.
HOW I STARTED LIFE AS AN ARTIST…
I was born with a crayon in my hand. My mother was very forgiving when I drew on the walls, the floor, on our dogs. I adored art. I pretty much failed at everything else. My report card was all F’s except for art, and weirdly, English. As I was in a few schools growing up, my most inspiring teachers were both my English teachers. My art teachers left me alone to do whatever I wanted. My maths teachers tormented me. Or least that’s how it felt.
MY TYPICAL DAY…
I am very fortunate to have my studios on our property. It’s a blessing and a curse. The kids always know where to interrupt me. I sometimes envy those who leave home to go to a studio. No distractions like laundry or hoovering get in the way. I’m a bit of a hermit, and enjoy being alone. For me, there is nothing better than working on a piece, with music playing, or just silence, being in the zone. No other thoughts, no other feelings… just me and whatever I’m working on.
MY MOST MEMORABLE ARTISTIC MOMENT…
My most memorable artistic moment has to be winning an award from The Salon Des Beaux Arts, at the Carousel Des Louvre, Paris France.
I had fallen in love with Paris when I visited with my mother for my 17th birthday. To be able to return to the same place and stand in the same spot, and tell my mother I had won an award was and still is such an amazing moment. She has always been my biggest supporter. To be able to share it with my mother is something I will never forget.
THE WORST PART OF BEING AN ARTIST…
I can’t blame anyone else when I fuck up.
THE BEST PART OF BEING AN ARTIST…
There are no borders as an artist. I feel we are able to glide through places without being classified. If I want to walk down the street in my pyjamas, it’s okay, she’s an artist.
AFTER I CLOSE MY STUDIO DOOR AT THE END OF THE DAY…
I spend time with my chickens, turkeys and guinea fowl then join my family for an amazing dinner cooked by my even more amazing husband.
IF I WASN’T AN ARTIST, I WOULD BE...
An opera singer.
