Bio
Jean Denis was born in Washington D.C. and grew up in a suburb of Chicago. She was influenced by her great aunt, Edna (Ted) Vognild and grandmother, Vera Denis, who’s art work led her to major in art history and painting at Southern Illinois University. She left the Midwest and came West, living in the San Francisco Bay area for many years and then pursuing her dream of being close to nature in Fall Creek Oregon.
In Oregon, she met and was influenced by many fine artists, including Adam Grosowsky, D. Brent Burkett, and Jerry Ross.Jean paints landscapes, seascapes, interiors, and whatever else moves her, but it is the human portrait that provides her with the greatest challenge, intimidation and delight. Portraits attempt to bring someone here and now, transcending time and space, in an effort to mimic the immortal life force present in the human spirit or soul.
Jean has had solo exhibitions at the following galleries:
- Criterion Gallery 2007
- Cowfish 2011
- Diva 2009
- Emerald Art Gallery, Springfield, Oregon 2010
- La Follette 2009, 2010, 2011
- The Jazz Station 2013
- Jawbreaker 2007
- PR Institute 2011, 2013
- The Wow Hall Gallery 2008
- The Museum of Unfine Art 2009
- The Woodpeckers Muse 2011,
- Café Zenon 2011
Solo Museum Show:
- Springfield Museum, 2010, Springfield, Oregon.
- Brownsville, Club Macchia
- Jazz Station, Plein Air Painters of Eugene
- Diva
- Jacobs Gallery
- Lane Community College
Awards:
- Eugene Mayors Art Show, Juror’s Choice
- Springfield Mayors Art Show, First place
