I love making things; laying down a line with a pencil, or colour with a brush or roller. I enjoy the fluidity and spontaneity of painting, but also the many processes and experimentation that are possible with printmaking.

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I grew up in Nova Scotia so the Atlantic coast and maritime environment have been a constant inspiration to me. My Nova Scotian background and training in biology, art and graphic design all contribute to the way I see the world and influence the images I create. The endurance and power of the sea and shore, and of nature and humanity are recurring themes in my work. 

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Always exploring a diverse range of interests, I initially studied biology (Dalhousie University, BSc 1980, MSc 1982) and then graphic design (NSCAD, Diploma Graphic Design, 1987). After moving to Waterloo in 1987 I worked as a graphic designer at an advertising firm in Kitchener, then as a lecturer at the University of Waterloo teaching genetics and vertebrate evolution, and subsequently became an instructional developer at the Centre for Teaching Excellence at that institution. Throughout that career, I kept making art, mostly painting. Since retiring from University of Waterloo 2016 I have been able to concentrate on my art practice full time. Part of that practice has been taking courses and workshops in many different printmaking techniques and participating in juried shows and other art events.

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In May 2021 my partner an I returned to Nova Scotia to live in Stonehurst North and Halifax fulltime. I am currently a member of  the Lunenburg Art Gallery Society and the Mahone Bay Printmakers. I show my work in a variety of venues and juried shows.

 

My work can be purchased by contacting me through this site or at the Lunenburg Art Gallery, 194B Lincoln St, Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. I accept commissions. 

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Follow me on Instagram @holbrookjane

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Recent Juried Shows and Awards:

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ArtAscent Magazine published my work "Billy Awake and Asleep" in their Portraits issue, January, 2023

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The Patience of Ordinary Things - Group Show and Sale - Lunenburg Art Gallery, November 23 - 27, 2022

 

TOMPE 2022 - The Ontario Miniature Print Exhibition - Print London,  August 17 - 27, 2022

 

TOMPE 2020 - The Ontario Miniature Print Exhibition - Print London, July 29 - August 15, 2020

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KWSA Juried Show – Reflection – Homer Watson Gallery,  Feb 2 - March  8, 2020 (received Juror's Choice for  October in Ostia)

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Friends & Lovers - Waterloo Button Factory Arts Centre - January  15 -  February 1, 2020

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Festive Art Show - 52 Regina St N, November 28 - December 21, 2019

 

KWSA Juried Show – Contrasts – Homer Watson Gallery,  March 17 - April 21, 2019 (received Juror's Choice for Of the Sea)

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Press - Annual Printmaking Show - Waterloo Button Factory Arts Centre - February 15 - 29, 2019

 

Sweet Sixteen - Arts District Gallery - Kitchener - January 18 - February 16, 2019

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Press - Annual Printmaking Show - Waterloo Button Factory Arts Centre - June 29 - July 20, 2018

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William's Cafe Gallery - Waterloo - April 1 - June 30, 2018

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KWSA Juried Show – Textures – Homer Watson Gallery,  March 18 - April 22, 2018 (received Honourable Mention for Beach)

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12 x 12 show - Paula Diamond White Gallery - November  2 - December 6, 2017

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Waterloo Button Factory Arts Centre Annual Juried Show - October 12 - November 10, 2017

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Mary Allen Studio Tour - Waterloo, Ontario - September 30 - October 1, 2017

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Press - Annual Printmaking Show - Waterloo Button Factory Arts Centre - July 7 - 21, 2017

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TOMPE 2017 - The Ontario Miniature Print Exhibition - Print London, June 21- June 30, 2017 

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Nature - Nurture - Waterloo Button Factory Arts Centre - May 13 - 28, 2016 

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