How did your artistic journey start?
As a child, I was always doodling, but I only took up painting a few years ago as a hobby.

How did you arrive at the theme of your work?
I guess I’m a bit of a drama queen, I love people but particularly dramatic views that make you wonder what they are thinking, doing, etc.

Can you walk us through your creative process?
Once I have an idea or have been inspired by something I’ve seen I sketch the outline out first before putting the paint to work.

How has your practice changed over time?
I’m starting to branch out and recently have been working on some landscape paintings.

How do you overcome creative blocks?
Now that’s a difficult one as I can get quite frustrated when I can’t find the inspiration. Probably go walking and people-watch.

Who influences you? Which other artists work do you love? 
Some of my favourite artists are Jack Vettriano, Edgar Degas, Rebecca de Mendonca, Vic Bearcroft, Banksy and Salvador Dali. Quite a mixed bag, I think.

What advice would you give to artists who are just starting out?
Don’t try to be a perfectionist. Just put paint on canvas and let your imagination flow. Something will always take shape. Art is not about recreating a photograph. It’s about emotion, feelings, and personality; most of all, it’s about you.

Is there anything else you would like people to know about your work or your experiences as an artist?
I do a lot of animal paintings in pastels and take pet portraiture commissions. Also, I’m currently working on my website, which showcases my work – called ‘Painting and Poems’ as some of my paintings include poems related to the subject.

You can see more of Jaz’s work at our Winter Show, Warm Voices, which runs at Six Foot Gallery until 9 January 2024.