About the artist:

Jan Saia seems to have been "born to art". As a child growing up in Wisconsin, she spent most of her time doing just that. "Expressing myself artistically came natural to me". Living and working in California during her early adult years, Jan worked in the business world doing what was "Practical", but during that period in her life, she kept her "hand in", satisfying her need to create. She took classes in all forms of art, mostly watercolor, and painted and drew as much as time would allow. Saia's change to Oil from Watercolor was a defining moment in her life. Oil Painting was the key that allowed her to put her more "practical" nature aside and take the plunge into being a "Painter". Jan has been painting full time ever since. Studying with several well known painters was helpful in developing the distinctive atmospheric style that she is known for. Yet, she finds that for herself, a total commitment and many long hours of painting from "Life" have been the strongest influence on her work. She feels that "Now I am on my way to realizing my early potential". "I feel so blessed to be able to do what I love". Jan is married, and after nine years of living in the South West, she and her husband decided to move back to northern California to be closer to their families. So, as in Santa Fe, you will find her in her studio or "Plein Air" painting at one of her favorite locations, pursuing her life long dream as a full time "Artist". JAN SAIA - ARTIST STATEMENT The creation of art cannot be learned in a classroom. Techniques, principles and rules can be learned there, but not the true inspiration. There is a "Truth" that governs everything. For me, the ability to open up and truly "see" is the foundation for every painting that I do. The more I trust my instincts, the more often I experience these truths, whether it is expressed in my painting or in other aspects of my life. "I have a duty to myself to live up to my potential as a person as well as an "Artist". "I want to look back at my life with a sense of pride rather than regret, knowing that I didn't allow fear or self doubt to be my master". "It is my sincere hope that I will continue to be true to myself and my dream". - Jan Saia