Amidst the chaos of bustling cities and the relentless pace of our daily lives, encountering individuals who have devoted their existence to capturing the exquisite beauty of our world is like taking a breath of fresh air. I was fortunate enough to venture into the enchanting studio of Jeanette Obbink, a talented plein air artist and dedicated teacher and mentor. Jeanette’s profound inspiration lies in the solace of nature, beckoning us to be still, to immerse ourselves in its tranquil embrace, and to create.
Through her paintings, she effortlessly transports us to serene landscapes, where we can not only see but also feel the gentle caress of the breeze, smell the earthy aromas of the wilderness, and hear the melodic whispers of nature’s symphony. The sheer presence of Jeanette’s studio exudes a sense of calm, providing a sanctuary where the world’s chaos dissipates, allowing us to find peace in the intimate connection between art and nature. As I sat down with Jeanette, I couldn’t help but be curious about her earliest memories of being inspired to create art. She shared with me that she grew up in a remarkably creative household, where her parents instilled in her a sense of wonder and encouraged her to see beyond the expected. Her father expressed his artistic vision through photography, while her mother explored various mediums, resulting in a collection of materials that sparked creativity at every turn. Jeanette and her sisters all found their unique creative expressions, but she was the only one who chose art as a career.
Throughout her artistic journey, Jeanette’s sources of inspiration have evolved. Having moved countries twice, she has experienced different landscapes and environments, which have influenced her subject matter. While living in England, she developed a deep love for oil painting, and since moving to Canada, she has embraced the Canadian landscape as her primary inspiration. Jeanette’s work reflects her connection with creation as a whole, inviting viewers to experience the time and place she captured on canvas. When asked about significant influences in her career, Jeanette emphasized the impact of her parents, who nurtured her artistic spirit. But she also acknowledged the importance of the people she encountered along her life’s path, including colleagues, friends, professors, historical figures, outdoor painting buddies, and even her students. Each person brought a unique perspective that enriched both her life and her art.
Jeanette’s favourite medium to work with is oil, which is well suited for painting plain air. While she still occasionally explores watercolour and acrylic, she finds the richness and versatility of oil unparalleled. Its ability to create soft edges and blend colours while maintaining a distinct finish captivates her artistic sensibilities.
Describing her work, Jeanette characterizes it as representational with a touch of impressionism and hints of the Group of Seven’s influence. Her intention is to transport viewers to the moment and place she experienced when painting, allowing them to pause, catch their breath, and find beauty in the ordinary corners of their surroundings. When inquiring about an interesting story from her life as an artist, Jeanette shared amusing anecdotes from her plein air painting experiences. Conversations with curious onlookers, encounters with the local police responding to concerned calls, and even encounters with wildlife added unexpected excitement to her artistic endeavours. However, she acknowledged that her studio provides a quieter and more private space for creative exploration. Jeanette shed light on the less visible side of being an artist—the business aspect. Artists must manage galleries, exhibitions, online presence, and more. They must be self-motivated and navigate the unpredictable nature of what resonates with viewers and sells. Jeanette expressed gratitude for every piece she sells, considering it both a compliment and validation of her artistic expression.
Living in Paris, Ontario, Jeanette finds herself surrounded by nature’s beauty. While she laments the encroaching subdivisions, she cherishes the green spaces and farmland that still grace the area. The local community offers a vibrant artistic atmosphere, with fellow creators and numerous art events that bring people together to celebrate their shared passion. Jeanette extends an invitation to all those interested in exploring the joy of plein air painting. She encourages everyone to give it a try, as the act of observing and standing still allows one to see and appreciate the world in ways that a camera snapshot cannot capture.
Jeanette offers classes in her studio, and she often teaches through Glenhyrst, offering one day workshops or a series of watercolour classes. For more information please visit Jeanette’s website: Obbink.ca
