Adobe Sol Designs ~ the BLOG ~

The art of Emma-Jayne Saanen truely comes from deep within her soul. She tells a story with each skillful stroke of her pencil and brush.  I am so pleased to feature her in this interesting interview. Enjoy!

Tell us about yourself and your work.

I am Emma-Jayne Saanen, an animal artist based in the UK, near Glasgow. My art is the result of my journeys as an animist, neo-pagan totemist and aspiring contemporary shamanist. The world is full of people, moving through their lives and sharing their stories with those who will listen. In the cries of birds, the scurrying of animals, the growth of trees and the movement of the wind there are stories abound – if only we stop long enough to acknowledge the voices of those who are other-than-human.

How did  your artistic journey begin?

My journey began at a young age. I was always drawing, and animals dominated my creativity. I grew up in a family that bred dogs, and lived in a place that had the benefits of urban wildlife, farm animals and the creatures that roam the woods. My home is a town near Loch Lomond, and the beauty of the land touched me at an early age.

Have you had formal education in the arts, or are you completely self-taught?

I did study at the Glasgow School of Art, and have a BA(Hons) in Environmental Art, but the course was not for me. It was too restrictive and I was unsupported. For me, what I taught myself and have learned from my peers has been far more valuable.

Where do you find your inspiration?

I am inspired by the animal kingdom, my work as a volunteer park ranger, and my interests in animism and neo-pagan totemism. Fellow artists that influence and drive me with their energy and philosophy are Pia Van Ravestein   and Lupa . My earliest artistic influence was Banksy . His bold lines are still visible in my work. 

The main influence has to be spiritual. I see animal spirits/totems and have to draw them, in the hope that others see their energies too and are inspired.

Do you have a favourite piece or collection of work?

My favourite piece at the moment would have to be “Roe Deer II“.  This illustration was inspired by the “spirit” that inhabits a set of Roe antlers I was gifted earlier this year.

What direction do you plan to take your work ?

I am in a rest period at the moment. I am not sure where my work is going. It’s an organic process, and will grow and bloom in it’s own way. I find that quite exciting!

See Emma-Jayne Saanen’s work at:

http://theurbanimal.wordpress.com/     
http://urbanimal.daportfolio.com/