The most important thing in the world is to hold our souls aloft.
- Gustave Flaubert
Janet Jacobs, Artist Statement for her exhibition: Hope Rising
Our world, in all of its tangled difficulties, needs moments - perhaps years - of grace. I believe that the earth offers us a wellspring of goodness. My paintings suggest that we can find healing by basking in the silences and the sounds, the colors and textures, and the changing seasons reflected in the landscape.
I use paint as the language of hope and joy, and light and color are part of my vocabulary. I believe that the earth, while it’s hurting, sends us messages about the potential for something wonderful.
Movement is an important part of my work. I am responding to the earth’s spirit rising as it transitions through seasonal shifts. I’m exploring my own reaction to change in the world and within my life.
My paintings use movement flowing across the canvas as a metaphor for transformative possibilities. Instead of responding with fear when life is difficult, I prefer a more open stance, welcoming change and growth.
I believe we need to do whatever we can to hold our souls aloft. Beyond living with love for family and community, I find solace in painting and in the landscape.
