Visual Poetry: Alumni & Current Student Artists
Jane Driscoll
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jdriscollstudio/
Website - https://www.jdriscollstudio.com
Bio:
Jane Driscoll (b.1988), an Artist hailing from the Central Valley of California, earned her Bachelors of Studio Art from California State University Stanislaus in 2021. She works with graphite, charcoal, and paint, as well as creates digital illustrations and paintings. Artists who have influenced her work immeasurably include Alphonse Mucha, the Pre- Raphaelite Brotherhood, and Lois van Baarle.
She has exhibited her work in the Box Gallery, Stan State Art Space, LH Horton Jr Art Gallery, and Rochester Contemporary Art Center in New York. She has also had her work published in Penumbra, the Stanislaus State Literary Art Journal, as well as Grey Matter—a zine focused on an exploration of mental health. She currently works as a stay at home mom, and enjoys any free time.
Artist Statement:
The process of creation, for me, had always been a journey into a state of flow. In my formative years, usually with a pencil or paint brush, making art was a personal reset that had been a constant source of comfort. However, the passing of my father has added new facets to my artistic exploration. Steeped in deep reflection of these profound concepts, and intertwined with my exploration of sculpture as a medium, this new body of work is a venture into uncharted territory. Matches and butterflies have been a unifying motif in my work. Their quick spark, unwieldy flutters, and leftover ashes—like memories—have been a unifying motif symbolizing death, grief, and love in many of my works.
Falling
Oil on Paper 2024
8” x 10”
$100
This painting was inspired by Florence and the Machine’s song Falling. The lyrics evoke a sense of surrender and tension, showing how falling can feel both terrifying and beautiful. I wanted to capture that moment of freedom—a woman out dancing without a care in the world. She’s surrounded by lights that resemble stars, enshrouding her in a cosmic embrace.
Falling – by Florence and the Machine
"Sometimes I wish for falling, wish for the release
Wish for falling through the air to give me some relief.
Because falling's not the problem, when I'm falling I'm at peace.
It's only when I hit the ground it causes all the grief."
For me, this piece explores what it means to fall—not just physically, but emotionally. Sometimes falling apart or letting go can open us up to transformation. I hope this painting resonates with those moments when we give in to uncertainty and find a strange kind of peace in it.
Exhibition Season:
Alumni Artists Files