Janice Ferguson (Watling) born in 1955 in Wallsend, Newcastle upon Tyne. Growing
up in a largely industrial area of Newcastle her early inspiration came from pictures
in books and perhaps more significantly, from the yearly trips she made with her
family to Eyemouth, where she began to share in her father's passion and enthusiasm
for wildlife and the natural environment.
At thirteen, Jan attended Kings College Art School at Newcastle University, where
she was invited to attend classes to refine and develop her skills.
In 1985 Jan moved with her husband and two children to Argyll. Moving to this rural
area was a dream come true and provided her with a never-ending source of inspiration.
A lifetime of dedicated study of all types of animals is evident in her superbly
detailed watercolour and gouache paintings. Supreme control of the media allows Jan
to express the vast range of colour and texture in her chosen subjects, whilst at
the same time, capturing their personality, beauty and character.
Collectors and galleries throughout the United Kingdom seek her work with an increasing
overseas clientele. Jan also undertakes commissions of both pets and wildlife.
Highlights to date include:
- Exhibiting at the Olympia London, one of twenty finalists in an international wildlife
competition organised by the Born Free Foundation.
- Exhibiting at the annual The National Exhibition of Wildlife Artists (NEWA) and subsequently
being selected as a finalist in the British Wildlife Awards 2014.
- Producing commissioned works, which now feature on a selection of Bladnoch Whisky
merchandise.
- Facilitating the development of art enthusiasts through voluntary participation with
local art groups, schools and community groups.
- Jan was honoured to join the GSWA in September 2014.
- In 2017 Jan became an Artist Member of the Paisley Art Institute