Originally from the Netherlands, Janna Kumi is a Canadian artist living in Metro Vancouver and exhibiting and selling her work in British Columbia, Canada, and the USA. Her initial art studies were at the Montreal Museum of Fine Art, but she went on to complete professional degrees in physical geography and forestry at various Canadian universities and in Germany. Following a successful career in natural resource management in British Columbia, she returned to art and completed a Certificate of Fine Art Techniques at Emily Carr University of Art and Design (2009) and a Bachelor of Fine Art at the University of British Columbia (2015).

 Since then, she has built her artistic practice around a unique body of work.  She has been awarded two Canada Council for the Arts grants (2019/20 and 2021/22) and attained her Associate Status (AFCA) with the Federation of Canadian Artists in 2021. She has been active with both the North Shore Artist’s Guild (2008 – present) holding various positions on the Board, the Federation of Canadian Artists (2013 - present), and the Cityscape Art Rental Program (2018 – present). She is represented by the Catching Stars Gallery on Bowen Island, near Vancouver, BC, Canada.

Artist Statement:

In my artistic practice, I am continually fascinated by the innate beauty and the stories hidden within the natural world. My drawings and paintings serve as a testament to the intricate textures, organic patterns, and narratives found mainly in the bark of trees.  With its weathered surfaces and richly textured layers, bark holds a visible history within its patterns and crevices. As an artist, I am drawn to the metaphorical resonance of this material, seeing it as a visual representation of the layers of our own human experiences. By carefully observing and studying the intricate details of bark, I endeavor to capture its presence and convey its hidden past.

Using a variety of drawing techniques and tools, I meticulously recreate the textures and patterns of bark on paper and wood. The act of drawing allows me to connect intimately with the natural world, immersing myself in the subtle nuances of form, line, and tone. Each stroke of my pencil, ink or pastel becomes a meditative exploration, an invitation to slow down and appreciate the intricacies of nature.

Through my bark drawings, I strive to evoke a sense of wonder and reverence for the world around us. By isolating fragments of bark and enlarging them on paper and wood supports, I aim to emphasize their uniqueness and transform them into mesmerizing landscapes of their own. I invite viewers to examine these intricate textures, to lose themselves in the labyrinthine patterns, and to discover a renewed appreciation for the natural world's hidden treasures.

Beyond their visual appeal, these bark drawings also carry a symbolic signifigance. They serve as a reminder of the resilience of nature and the interconnectedness of all living things. Like the bark of a tree that protects its inner core, we too are shaped by the experiences and stories that etch themselves upon our own surfaces. Through my art, I aim to explore these universal themes and prompt viewers to reflect upon their own journeys of growth and self-discovery.

In a world often filled with noise and distractions, these drawings offer a moment of respite and contemplation. By capturing the essence of nature's intricate beauty, I challenge viewers to reconnect with the natural world and find solace and inspiration in its quiet strength. Through the tactile and visual experience of these drawings, I invite you to embark on a journey of discovery, where hidden stories come to life.