An Ottawa Little Theatre patron, talented artist Jean Neidy shares some personal stories about her artwork, currently hanging in the Janigan Studio at OLT.
Let’s start at the beginning. Where were you born and how did you end up in Ottawa?
I was born in Calgary, Alberta. I was what one called a “military brat”, my father being in the Canadian Air Force. My family moved quite a bit during my younger years, ending up in Ottawa and this became home.
How did you get into painting and creating? Did you have any major influences that shaped your work?
My husband was an influence on me to start painting. He won awards in high school for his art. He was painting ceramics when I met him. So, I also started painting with ceramics. A short while later Tole Painting [the folk art of decorative painting on tin and wooden objects] became a popular painting medium. I had a few co-workers who were doing this, so in 1993 I started Tole Painting, taking many classes painting different projects.
My mom was also a great influence in my pursuit of painting, being my biggest fan and offering much support. She worked with oils where I found acrylics more rewarding for me.
About seven years ago I started acrylic painting on canvas. Recently, I have started enjoying painting with water colours; I have included some in the show.
What is your connection with the Ottawa Little Theatre?
My husband and I have been attending Ottawa Little Theatre productions since before we were married (1981). As well, I have a great friend who treats me a few times a year. My sister, who has associations with OLT, having taken acting lessons – we have lovely evenings out of “dinner and a show”.
What image or piece of work on display is your favourite? What is your favourite story linked to one of your pieces?
I love to paint trees. Two of my art pieces in this show, A Walk in PEI, came from a photo my sister took who sent it to me and said ,“Paint This”. My husband and I have travelled to Lake Placid many times. While there, Mirror Lake, (pictured below) was a photo that I took.
