Hunter Island Press

Jane Tyler

Jane Tyler is graduating from the University of Tasmania this year and has developed a passion for working with lithograph, especially extending the limits of wash techniques. Using lithograph stones or plates she creates earthy and dramatic images. Jane sometimes further extends the limits of an image digitally.

lightening ridge, lithograph, digital, by Jane Tyler, 2005

“Lightening Ridge”, lithograph, digital, Jane Tyler, 2005

L.L. How long have you been working in printmaking?: J.T. In 2005 I completed a Bachelor of Fine Art in Hobart, Tasmania where I majored in printmaking.
L.L. Do you concentrate on one medium, or do you use a few different techniques to create your work?: J.T. Non-representational art is a hint, a suggestion of another life and reality. This allows me to use a broad range of techniques and utilize an eclectic mix of mediums. The techniques I use are dependent on what I am trying to convey visually and emotively. Screen print’s immediacy is fantastic. It is quick, productive, producing bright and vibrant colors. Lithography is more contemplative but gives you some amazing marks and I love the chance element. The medium allows for the subconscious flow but it can also be placed and controlled. Digital art is unlimited; at the moment I’m using it as an adjunct to the mark making in more traditional printmaking mediums.
L.L. Why do you choose this way to work?: J.T. See above
L.L. What inspires your work at present?: J.T. The work explores borders: a side, an edge, a margin, or a boundary. To every border there is an edge, an area of transition that “grey area”. This is a fragile edge with fluidity and change. It is the place of greatest energy and power. It is an area of fusion, flux or destruction. Psychologically it is the area of change and to me represents many dichotomies in society.; The work is inspired by the social climate, diversity of people and the landscape. I create abstract images that are metaphors for the border between body and landscape, self and other, life and death, and light and dark.; Often I am using the landscape as a metaphor because it is in a constant state of flux. The water cascades down shifting the rocks and creating sand. It can be a low ebbing flow or a torrent, and it is always a good analogy for peoples’ lives and society.
L.L. Has this been the basis for your work for a long time, or is it a recent passion?: J.T. I like working on the edge, so I guess I’ve been working with this theme for a long time.
L.L. How much do you think living in Tasmania influences your work?: J.T. I have traveled extensively and I love living in Tasmanian “ family, friends, passionate people, the wild landscapes, the change in weather, the rivers and the sea. Occasionally it is insular and isolated, but overall its fantastic.
L.L. Are there any artists that you look to for inspiration?: J.T. Kiki Smith, Barbara Kruger, Ian Friend, Bruno Leti, Mark Rothko
L.L. What ambitions do you have for your continued development as an artist? Travel? Residencies? International exhibitions?: J.T. As an emerging artist I’m looking for opportunities to market myself both locally and internationally.
L.L. How important is study for you?: J.T. Study whether formal or informal allows people to develop new skills, strengthen their networks and source new opportunities ¦ yes it is important.
L.L. Where do you see yourself in three years time?: J.T. Continuing to develop my art practice through international exhibitions, overseas travel, residencies and gallery representation.