Artist Statement

After twenty years of working as a potter, Janet is still thrilled by the prospect of creating work that enhances the homes and lives of those to whom her work goes. Her production work consists mainly of thrown functional tableware glazed with a maiolica glaze and decorated with bright festive colours and floral patterns inspired by European ceramics. She also creates handbuilt one of a kind pieces in which she explores various other glazes, textures and images.

Janet recently moved from her urban garden pottery studio in the cities trendy north end to suburban Clayton Park. In this new setting she will continue to combine her clay practice with her love of gardening which has also been a great influence on her work. The aesthetic of colour, pattern and the vibrant energy that they signify are important to her. Through her work, she seeks to enhance the rituals of daily living, transforming all aspects of the routine into moments of celebration.

Since living in Halifax, Janet has been actively involved with the arts community. For eight years she was president of the Nova Scotia Potters Guild helping to organize workshops and exhibitions. She was Chair of Visual Arts News for many years. She is currently on staff of the magazine as Ad Sales Manager. She also assists with compiling the Halifax Art Map a yearly publication promoting Halifax artists.

Janet has a BFA in ceramics from the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design. In 1990 she did a residency at the Banff Centre for the Arts. Her work has won awards two of which include Best Body of Work at Show of Hands, Nova Scotia Designer Craft Council summer festival 1998 and the Popular Choice Award presented by the Ottawa Guild of Potters, Fireworks 2003.