Interview
Janette Woelwer
Janette Wölwer uses mixed media to paint lyrical and material paintings. Experiences, interactions, and transformations enrich our lives and inspire Janette to reflect them in her work. At the heart of her art lies the interplay between tactile elements, light, and the observer. She focuses on lyrical abstractions that go beyond traditional acrylic painting - a form of art that conveys emotional and subjective experiences through abstract shapes and colors, evoking an immediate emotional response in the viewer. To create these visual and poetic experiences, Janette utilizes tactile textures and various forms of luminescence, including fluorescent, iridescent, and phosphorescent pigments. These techniques allow the perception of her works’ colors to shift depending on the viewing angle, the light source, and the intensity of light hitting the artwork.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I’ve always felt a strong drive to create. I started with drawings and later explored writing and realizing lyrical prose, theater plays, and screenplays, as well as studying film and designing fashion. For the past twenty years, I’ve engaged with visual art as an observer, attending exhibitions and art fairs. Last year, I began creating my own paintings, marking a new path in my artistic journey and discovering a distinctive way to express myself.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“My work focuses on abstract, material-based painting with a textured, lyrical, and gestural approach. I explore the interplay of colors and their impact, often incorporating a sense of luminescence to create depth and evoke emotions. Through layers and movement, I aim to draw the viewer into a dynamic and immersive experience.”
Do you plan your work in advance, or is it improvisation?
“My process combines thoughtful planning with intentional improvisation. I start with a vision, carefully selecting materials and defining composition. Yet, during the creation process, I welcome spontaneity, allowing the unexpected to shape the final piece. This blend of structure and intuition ensures a balance between precision and organic energy.”
“I explore the interplay of colors and their impact, often incorporating a sense of luminescence to create depth and evoke emotions.”
What process, materials and techniques do you use to create your artwork?
“I use structure paste, which I make from marble dust and binders, along with fluorescent, iridescent, and phosphorescent pigments to mix my own acrylic paint. I also work with spray paint, watercolors, and pouring medium for special effects. I primarily use my hands, with water creating fluid transitions. Depending on the work, I incorporate materials like wood, freshwater pearls, resin, metal leaf or rhinestones.”
What does your art mean to you?
“My art is a meditative process that gives me the freedom to create something new while being present in the moment. It makes ideas and emotions visible without words, transforming thoughts and feelings into something lasting.”
What’s your favourite artwork and why?
“I don’t have a single favorite artwork, as I believe the beauty of art lies in its diversity. I’m inspired by works that evoke emotions, challenge perspectives, or reveal the artist’s unique vision.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I had the opportunity to participate in a group exhibition at The Stage Gallery in Bonn, Germany and to open my studio as part of the Cologne Museums Night at Museumsnacht Köln with my studio collective, the ‘Atelier-Gemeinschaft Refugium.’ During the Museums Night, I presented my Neurotransmitter series, a collection of six paintings. Additionally, my work has been featured in digital exhibitions in Berlin, Paris, Palma de Mallorca, Athens, Dubai, Venice, Zurich, and at the Basel Airport.”
Instagram: @j_woelwer
Brush Bio: brush.bio/janettewoelwer
