FEATURED ARTIST - JANE HITTINGER

How long have you been a member of the GCWS and why did you join?
Since the second meeting was held. My father, Robert Cleveland, took me to the meeting with him. I was new to watercolor and I knew I could learn from such wonderful people.
Have you held any positions with the GCWS; if so, what positions?
Yes, I did the minutes of the meetings for the first few years; then I began sharing the membership position with Deb Ward. I take care of the name tags.

What are some of your artistic achievements?
I have taken part in every show at GCWS since the first one at Evergreen. I am still trying to learn to paint watercolors by taking classes at Baker Hunt and a workshop with Tony Couch and hopefully many more. I learned the most studying with my father, who did not sugarcoat what he thought, which could be very hard on your ego, but taught me so much. I am also a member of the Cincinnati Art Club.

Describe your usual procedures for creating a painting.
I get an idea, do a sketch or two of the subject matter, then lightly sketch on 140 lb. watercolor paper. Then decide a color palette to use and get going. I struggle to try to stay loose and let the colors mingle on the paper since that is what draws me to watercolor.
How long have you been painting.
I began painting just prior to when the GCWS was started.
In what medium, other than watercolor or acrylic, do you work?
Charcoal and pen and ink are the only mediums I have tried, so far.

Where do you get your inspiration for paintings?
Everywhere, but mostly from nature, just being outside or looking out a window. Art is everywhere we look – a doorway, face, building, tree - the subject does not have to be exotic.
Are you a teacher?
No, but I would love to be one of these days.
Where do you see yourself in the future? (ie., is painting a hobby; will you enter shows; do you see yourself teaching?)
Painting is more than a hobby, but life gets in the way, so I do not get to paint as often as I would like, which makes me feel like an “eternal beginner”. I hope to continue painting, entering shows and down the road, who knows? I love painting even if I never improve but I am certainly going to try my best!

Is there anything else you would like for us to know about you and your art?
I hope to encourage others who feel like they are not good enough to join a group, take a class, get a DVD or book of favorite artists and get some supplies and begin painting for yourself! Art is a wonderful friend who is always waiting for you, day or night, rain or shine. I wish I had begun painting earlier, but I am so glad I did it.