Bio
Jane Mennigke was born in Johannesburg, Gauteng Province in South Africa. She studied art at secondary school, and graduated from Durban University of Technology with a Diploma in Graphic design in 1982. She completed her postgraduate studies in Education at the University of KwaZulu Natal in Pietermaritzburg.
She taught art at secondary schools in the midlands of Natal for many years before coming to Canada in 2011. Teaching was at times interrupted by full time studio work, in preparation for a number of group shows between 2004 and 2009 at Wedgewood, Hilton, and artSPACE Durban, and two solo exhibitions, at artSPACE Durban and St Anne’s Diocesan school respectively. She has also sold a number of commissioned works, notably the Black Madonna and Child for St Anne’s Diocesan School Chapel in Hilton, and the Aumbrey Door for the Anglican Cathedral in Port Elizabeth. This will be her first showing of work in Canada. |
Artist's Statement
Painting in oils has been an exploration for me in referring to a particular place and time, the colours shape and textures of a space, first in South Africa, my home since birth, and now in Canada.
I usually favour the drama in a landscape, its melancholy, or ruggedness. Landscapes are evocative and have a personal story. In particular, Landscape painting has been a point of reference; a way to connect with my environment. Canadians spend a lot of time outdoors in spite of the weather. It’s something I enjoy tremendously about this country. There is a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors. I have been fortunate enough to spend some time in Unity, Saskatchewan, and northern Alberta, in the deep snow, and in the Prairies. The vast store of exquisite landscape painting in Canada has been an inspiration. Living now in Vancouver, BC, I am enthralled by the varied landscape opportunities. I work outdoors as much as possible, and in studio, with focus on Still Life and Landscape. |