An interview with new Inka member Jane Holmes

It's with great pleasure that we welcome new member Jane Holmes to Inka Gallery!
Jane works predominantly in pen and ink and produces very detailed drawings of interesting historic buildings.

We are looking forward to Jane's first solo exhibition with us in 2013 so will let you know about the dates nearer the time.  In the meantime, some of her framed works will be featuring on the 'black wall' in just a few weeks, so we'll keep you posted.

Read Jane's interesting and varied background in the interview below accompanied by a sneak-peek of some of her original artworks that are already on our shelves.  
Why not drop into the gallery and take a closer look!

HOW DID YOU FIND OUT ABOUT INKA AND WHAT ATTRACTED YOU TO THE GALLERY?

A friend invited me to an exhibition opening one evening, which I enjoyed. I was impressed with the work on display. I thought the collection of artists at the gallery complimented each other, or though the work was all very different. Inka is a well organised group and fantastic point of sale for Artists, in the heart of the Salamanca Arts Centre.  It was then that I thought I want to be a part of this group.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN CREATING ART AND HOW DID YOU GET STARTED?

When I was a child my grandmother would  send me oil paintings in the mail. I lived in NZ and she was in Sydney, I only met her once, but remember her detailed paintings, and still have a couple.

Art was always my favourite subject at school and my high grades got me through college. I have had a few evening classes in pen and ink drawing, acrylic and watercolour painting. I have done some form of drawing or painting all my life.  I had a hotel in SW Queensland for 9 years. I turned one of my letting rooms into a gallery and sold not only my own work but art and craft work of the locals. I use to go to property auctions and buy up old milk cans, tubs and meat safes, bring them home do them up, paint them and sell them on.  I turned my hand to many crafts from quilting to dried flowers and card making. Before too long the bus tours were stopping for Devonshire teas on the veranda.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVOURITE SUBJECT OR MEDIUM?

I always seem to return to the pen and ink, detailed drawings. Old buildings I love with a passion, so thought I was in heaven when I arrived in Tasmania. I think it is the textures and character I love the most.

HOW DO YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE OF ART?

I have always done very detailed work, I draw what I see.  I have started adding watercolour or pastel splashes of colour to my pen and ink drawings where I feel it is needed.

WHAT OR WHO INSPIRES YOUR WORK?

Any half fallen down old building gets my attention. Rustic, textured, old. My grandmother first inspired me, then my father would sit and teach me perspective drawing.The various art teachers I have had throughout my life all added some value to my work.  A good friend  has been very encouraging  and inspiring not only with my artwork but life in general, he will be sadly missed .

WHAT DO YOU HOPE TO GAIN FROM BEING A MEMBER OF INKA GALLERY?

I am privileged to be a part of this wonderful group of artists. To be a member of a group of like minded people is great. I look forward to working with the artists and working in the gallery meeting people and contributing to the day to day running of it, and being hands on at Exhibition openings.


Jane's enthusiasm is already evident in the few weeks she's been with Inka!   And we are sure her contributions will support the ongoing development of the gallery. 



'Gone Fishing' by Carolyn Audet - Opening tonight at 5.30pm!!  (See previous post)