Jilann Spitzmiller

In my daily life, as a wife, a mother, a working filmmaker, I am pulled in many different directions, serving many needs. In my painting life, I find solitude, solace and spiritual connection in the making of marks, combining of colors, shaping of form. It’s a space where I don’t need to agree, consult or weigh in for another’s benefit. It’s a resting place, a healing place, a rejuvenating place. A place of soul retrieval. I am currently exploring “women’s work” in an irreverent way, questioning the norms and patterns that women find themselves in, generation after generation, despite liberation movements. By using collage, acrylic, oils, oil crayon and graphite in bold ways, I work to juxtapose the historical imperative for women to be quiet with my inner impulses of needing to be heard. The use of archival domestic imagery, sewing patterns and vintage handwritten letters plays against a love of bold color and line. Beauty remains important to me, and a joyful romp with the materials is a must.