Jan Purser is a Fremantle-based artist with over 20 years of creative practice, originally from Sydney. Beginning with oil painting in her late twenties, she has continued to develop her work alongside a career in naturopathic nutrition. Now retired, Jan devotes more time to her art, working across abstract and representational styles using acrylics, oils, gouache, mixed media and watercolour. She also creates papier-mâché artworks and teaches workshops in paper art and painting. Inspired by coastal surroundings and travels throughout Australia and beyond, Jan’s work reflects a deep appreciation for place, texture and ongoing creative exploration.
Jan says, “ My work reflects a stage of life shaped by newfound freedom, time and reflection. After years of balancing career, study and creativity, I now embrace a slower pace that allows deeper artistic exploration. In my paper art, using repurposed paper, cardboard and natural materials, I create works that echo the beauty of renewal and an evolving purpose in life. Much like these materials, I believe we continue to grow richer with time. My practice is influenced by daily observations—local walks, travel, family, and community—and expresses both lightness and responsibility. Through art, I celebrate creativity as something that expands, rather than diminishes, as we become older.
All the aspects of nature can bring about a feeling of pure joy and wonder for me - from the colour and form of exquisite flowers to the power in storm clouds over the ocean, or the rugged texture of cliffs and gorges. I love the beauty in nature in all its forms and my passion is to record this in some way to inspire others. Painting is very therapeutic as I allow the creative process to guide the paintbrush and palette knife and I lose myself in the memories of where I have been and the feelings I experienced in that place that I wish to pass on to others through my work.”