Inside the Studio with Janine Robertson
Janine’s unique and innovative approach to her landscape work quite literally captures the attention of viewers through her masterful use of thin layers of oil paint applied to metal substrate. This distinctive technique not only enhances the vibrancy of her colors but also adds a striking depth to the scenes she depicts, inviting viewers to engage more deeply with the artwork.
Join us as we enter Janine’s studio to delve deeper into her thoughts and the processes that inform each of her works.
Q: Where are you from and how does that affect your work?
As an oil painter based in Madison, CT, I draw inspiration from the shoreline's natural beauty and ever-changing landscape. My work seeks to capture the ephemeral essence of marshes, rivers, vast skies, and the dynamic force of large-scale waves. These elements serve as the primary focus for my landscapes rendered on aluminum and copper.
Q: Tell me about your favorite medium.
The decision to primarily use aluminum as a substrate is a cornerstone of my creative process. This material’s inherent reflective quality enhances the luminosity of oil paints. The durable, ultra smooth surface invites dynamic textures and adds an ethereal quality to my work, Artists have painted on copper for centuries and I think if aluminum had been available to them, they would have embraced it as a substrate for their work.
Q: How do you develop your compositions?
I use a combination of photographs, sketches and memory to develop a composition. I gather ideas from these elements, allowing them to guide my decisions and shape the final vision. In my studio, I blend these sources into a cohesive work, letting the composition evolve naturally through intuitive decision-making.
Q: How has your art evolved over time?
I began my career as a muralist and trompe l'oeil painter, completing commercial and residential installations throughout New England. Eventually, I shifted to landscape painting in oil, finding it a more intimate and satisfying pursuit.
Q: What motivates you to create?
My paintings are sought after for their unique fusion of vivid, energetic color palettes and an underlying tranquility. However, my greatest motivation comes from what resonates with me-art I would love to hang in my own home. I’m grateful for the opportunity to pursue my passion and hope it shows in my work. I love what I do and hope that sentiment is reflected in every piece I create.
