Today we’d like to introduce you to Carlyn Janus.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
Throughout my undergrad and after graduating with a BFA I had no particular focus or affinity for painting. Moonlighting as a freelancer in graphic design, art restoration, and filmmaking, I worked a day job as a buyer for an independent boutique in Chicago. At the time I never felt the need to choose a “career path” — building my skill set and experience while exploring new ideas felt like an extension of my education. After years of this hustle, I happened upon a freelance painting gig that left me with a profound spark for the medium. To my surprise, my love of painting only grew stronger over time, evolving into a dedicated career — despite being self-trained. I eventually quit my job and made the big move to NYC, which further energized my work and my artistic voice. I have now been a full-time independent working artist for five years. I do still freelance occasionally, embracing the idea that we never stop learning; we just stop trying.
Please tell us about your art.
My paintings are fueled by my deep respect and personal connection to the natural world. This is my fundamental artistic influence. I do not attempt to recreate nature’s beauty into a tangible setting or environment, but rather my paintings mix the elements of my surroundings and personal history into surreal textures and layers — portraying a distant memory or dream-like feeling, which is interpreted uniquely by the viewer. I want my work to offer it’s audience a sense of tranquility as well as excitement. To make them want to go to this mystical location and soak it up.
When delving further into my work, as well as my personal lifestyle, the theme of nature runs even deeper, hitting on efforts of conservation, sustainability, and appreciation. My artwork and my actions go hand in hand, showing great respect to the force from where I find my inspiration.
My painting career started at a time in my life when I was becoming more and more involved with a zero-waste, reuse, repurpose, minimalist lifestyle. These interests combined with a passion for flora, fauna, travel and all things natural, really coheres with my use of landscape imagery. My artwork may not conceptually portray environmental activism outright. However, the influence of such activism is intertwined with my art making practice. Just as a photo of plastic littered beaches can create a great impact and awareness, I believe the reverse can as well — showing the beauty of a raw, natural, uninhabited setting can act as a comparison and reminder of the destructive hand of society.
As an artist, how do you define success and what quality or characteristic do you feel is essential to success as an artist?
It’s impossible to know how I got to where I am today. I struggled through school, worked multiple jobs and never knew “what I wanted to be when I grew up,” but I also have always taken risks. I have moved apartments for more studio space. I quit my job to fully commit to being an artist, unsure if I could sustain it. I have worked for free. I have paid to show my work. I have moved across the country to try something I’ve never done before — but every day I feel successful because I am fundamentally happy and want to keep pushing myself and my work. Success is loving what I do and working hard enough so that I can keep doing it! Even if one’s income comes from something that is not their passion, don’t give up. Make time for what you love; you won’t regret it. There is no timeline for “success,” it comes from the journey — this inspirational moment brought to you by a person to talks to their cats:p
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
My artwork is carried in galleries around the country; however, I encourage admirers to visit my website and Instagram where I showcase everything new I complete. If I receive an inquiry for a specific piece I can set up a connection to where it is available, or if already sold, I can often arrange to make a custom piece. Even if not interested in purchasing, I love hearing from people and talking shop with other artists:) It’s very cool to be so connected these days, and it has helped me put a real importance on not just documenting my work, but also sharing the creation process and personal character — something I love seeing from other artist and creators I follow. Ive accepted, though, that no matter how much time I put into photo shoots and writing text, the best reactions will always come from photos of my cats “helping” in the studio. #studiocats
Contact Info:
- Address: Brooklyn, NY.
- Website: carlynjanus.com
- Email: carlynjanus@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/mudpony.cj
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/carlynjanus.painter
Image Credit:
Carlyn Janus
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