Meet Jan Oliver | Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jan Oliver and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jan, do you have some perspective or insight you can share with us on the question of when someone should give up versus when they should keep going?
Answer: I am passionate about art, but there are times that I question my place in the “art world” and whether to keep going or give up. The temptation to quit usually comes from a fear of failure, comparison, or lack of self confidence. When those road blocks pop up, I look to my faith, drawing strength and reassurance from God and from my customers as well. My artistic ability is a God given gift. I pray daily for skill and guidance for each piece I create. I draw much strength from that and consider art as one of the many things that give my life purpose. Creating a piece that someone then wants to display in their home is an amazing blessing to me. I am so thankful for the support of customers, online followers, family and friends. Their support encourages me to press on! Giving up would be an easy, but selfish, option. Instead, I’m determined to work thru my fears, stepping up to the easel with the mantra of “Just start! If it’s terrible, no one ever has to see it!” Then…I begin! In the words of singer/songwriter, Carrie Underwood, once the brush dips into the paint, “Jesus Takes the Wheel”! I let him guide my brushstrokes. I relax, I breathe, I pray thankful prayers. Grateful that I GET to do this and, in doing so, I GET to bring joy to others….Why would I ever give up the opportunity to do that!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve worked in all kinds of mediums. I’ve done the trends and the traditional “expected” art. I found “my style” in acrylics on glass and reclaimed wood. The mix of colorful brushstrokes and rustic recycled glass and wood creates a unique mixed media piece! It excites me when I hear, “As soon as I saw it I knew it was a ‘Jan Oliver’!” Knowing I’ve carved out a look for myself is exciting! It took time and experimentation, but once I found my groove, the art began to flow. My biggest challenge is getting out of my own head. I’m a rule following, people pleaser by nature. Art is my secret little place to let go and just be! It’s my safe rebellion! I don’t worry about “artist rules”. I just paint, step back, squint and paint some more…that’s the method to my madness! I’ve learned that perfection is a falsehood and that the fun and growth is in the mistakes along the way. I love what I do. Not just the art, but the joy that it brings other people too!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well, in Newnan, GA the first thing we’d do is hit the downtown square! There are so many fun little shops and eateries to visit. Tops on my “to do list” would be shopping at Gillyweed and Blue Moon Boutique then heading to Redneck Gourmet for lunch! We’d drive around and see all the beautiful, historical homes and visit with friends. Later, we’d get a group together for a fun night out at Knife & Stone for the best dining experience south of Atlanta! The next day we’d pack up and head to my happy place, Lake Wedowee, for the rest of the week. I love the slower pace, friendly folks and laid back lifestyle of lake life! I’d probably pick up BBQ at Betty Ruth’s BBQ (located in a gas station) and we would hang out on the lake with music and boat drinks all day, stopping in coves to jump in the water when the sun gets too hot! We’d spend the evening with a bonfire, roasting marshmallows and maybe pop over to “Bobber’s” one night for dinner and live music! That would be the perfect getaway to me!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I am thankful that God entrusted the gift of art to me. I feel he is genuinely working through my hands. I also want to recognize the support and encouragement that my parents, husband, and children have been to me. They are always cheering me on and love me “warts and all”! Last, but certainly not least, I’m thankful for my friends and customers who lift me up, boost my confidence and kindly purchase my pieces to display in their homes. In all we do, in life, it takes a village and I certainly love each person that is a part of mine!

Website: jmoliverart.com

Instagram: @jmoliverart

Facebook: jmoliverart

Image Credits
Duke &Co. Media