Janet Massimino – Artist Statement

My earliest memories of creating art are of playing under a Banyan tree whose huge canopy created a dirt canvas for my stick-pencil to draw spirals, circles and fanciful shapes. I carried my love for art to college, where I attended Willamette University, Mesa College and finally, Laguna College of Art and Design. I regularly attend workshops and courses throughout the U.S. and abroad which allows me to continue this creative journey and expand my artistic voice. Currently, I live in the robust community of Bend, Oregon.

In the past, I have worked in oil, pastel, watercolor, acrylic, clay, paper making, and now almost exclusively with the art of encaustic painting. The art form first emerged in ancient Greece in 5 B.C., and spread through the Mediterranean region, as described by the Roman historian, Pliny, in 1 A.D. Some examples exist today with the Fayum Portraits of ancient Egypt.

Most exciting and challenging about the encaustic medium is that it can incorporate several techniques including painting, drawing, scraping and melting in each painting. Adding elements such as paper, organic materials, stenciling and stamping, are just a few of the ways used to express an idea or theme.

Nature is an important influence in my work. Her forms, textures, and structures, along with the concepts of deterioration and regeneration interest me. Physical and spiritual symbols that connect humanity through time also play a part in my paintings. And I find that color is a tool that many times, drives the emotional reaction I try to evoke. For more information, I can be found at jan{at}starmranch{dot}net