Watercolor Paintings by Don Janus

Reception: Sunday, January 11, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

“From Wood to Watercolor” speaks to the primary elements underpinning my creative process. From journeyman carpenter to master woodworker, sometime potter and avid sketcher, I have always been creating things with my hands.

My initial foray from sketcher to watercolorist was at the behest of Lubna Zahid, a fine artist and former RCC instructor, who encouraged me to try my hand at painting. Other strong influences include Christine Lashley, Diane Ellor and Vicky Zhou, along with a group of painting friends who continue to inspire me.

The essential through-line connecting my creative experience is the ability to envision how to manifest a desired outcome. That line flows directly into watercolor, where it takes a practiced hand to brush paint onto paper and bring my vision to light. Many courses, online immersions and museum visits later, with some homage images on display here, you can see my influences span Edward Seago, Edward Wesson, James McNeil Whistler, Andrew Wyeth, Issac Levitan and Chiura Obata.

As also evidenced in this exhibit, I gravitate toward portraying structures in rural landscapes, particularly the decrepit, weathered remnants that I have witnessed across Rappahannock County where I have built my studio. I also have an affinity for certain furry and feathered creatures.