Born a Leo in the tiny town of Goderich, Ontario, Janine was inspired to paint and draw at a young age — surrounded by trees, waterfalls, wildlife, the gorgeous sunsets, and beaches of Lake Huron. Later in Oakville, she pursued an education at Sheridan College, where she realized her life’s passion in the realm of fine art.
This experience led her to Toronto, consequently one of the most influential times of Janine’s creative career. Working for a number of years with top Toronto Interior Designers, she was commissioned for large abstract paintings for Condo and Model Home sales offices all over the city. She also volunteered her time to represent 42 emerging Canadian Visual Artists, Photographers, Performers and Musicians for a local Resto-Lounge. She showcased interactive social events to give voice to artists who were struggling for some much-deserved recognition. Janine loved the city and its people, but part of her yearned for the quiet, small town in which her childhood was forged, with its gorgeous nature on daily display.
In April 2008, Ms. Jones relocated to Vancouver, where she discovered a merging of the urban and natural worlds. Working as Resident Artist with ROAM Gallery in Vancouver, she started fresh, focusing on Ocean and Mountain inspiration.
When COVID took over the world, the pace of art did as well. Janine took up painting pet portraits to survive when all galleries and shows had closed their doors. In 2021, a relocation back to Ontario to seek opportunity, to be closer to family, renewed and reignited her creative purpose.
Janine has collections across North America and showcases regularly in pop up shows across Canada, including ART Vancouver. She is continually working, including collaborations and commissions.
“I draw inspiration from sunsets, forests, natural life, and its splendor. I feel a need to live near water, it grounds me. I travel to explore new horizons and again in my dreams when they visit every night. I’m a mover and a doer — when life takes me in a new direction, without hesitation, I follow my heart. I paint how I feel, I paint what I see in my dreams. I feel like a little girl, who’s dying to get outside and play, with gratitude that I get to do it in Canada’s pristine, vast wild spaces.”
What is your idea of perfect happiness?
For myself, my family and all whom I have in my life to be rested, healthy and positive. Great energy full of love and positivity.
Which words or phrases do you most overuse?
Not sure, but I do like to talk to myself.
Where would you like to live? Fictional or?..
I would love to live in an eco-village on the ocean. Perhaps if we could go back in time and it never was submerged… Atlantis?
What or who is the greatest love of your life?
The greatest love would be hands down my son. He’s my mini me and I would die for the little bugger.
Which historical figure do you most identify with?
What is your greatest extravagance?
My kid. He’s going to cost a fortune to raise with his appetite for games, and “things”
When and where are you the happiest?
When I’m creating in the studio, dancing, and losing myself in a song, or helping others.
What is your favorite occupation?
Artist. Although I really enjoy Food Rescue.
Which talent would you most like to have?
To sing.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
I’m not certain I would change anything. Perhaps my procrastination and focus. I’m pretty sure I’m ADHD. lol
What is your greatest fear?
Claustrophobia – Uh the utter thought of tight spaces freaks me out!
What do you consider your greatest achievement?
My life. My family.
What is your most treasured possession?
Do I have one?
What do you most value in your friends?
Compassion.
What is your most marked characteristic?
I can be loud.
Who is your favorite hero?
Anyone who sticks up for the rights of others.
What is your greatest regret?
Should have saved a lot more money when I was young.
If you were to die and come back as a person or thing, what do you think it would be?
It hasn’t happened yet, I’m not sure!
JanineJones.ca
Roamgallery.com
Instagram @jjonesart
