An internationally recognized impressionist painter from West New York is now exhibiting at a gallery in Union City.
Janet Diaz, a native of Peru, has a selection of her work on display at the ArtsEcho Galleria on Park Avenue until the end of March.
“My principal inspiration is the human being in all its manifestations, from the depths of the soul, from heaven to hell,” said Diaz last week. She added that people may see themselves in her work, though everyone may have a different interpretation.
“Many viewers see people in movement, others see landscapes, roads, animals,” she said. “Many others don’t see definite objects but expressions of feelings, strength, vitality, sadness, mysteries without resolve, unknown spaces.”
Diaz added that often, when she starts out, even she is not sure what her painting will ultimately resemble.
“My paintings are seen as very subjective and suggestive at the same time, and sometimes I am not sure what the result will be,” said Diaz. “For me, each painting is a new discovery.”
For each piece, Diaz uses oils because, the painter explained, they are fluid and expressive. She added that she enjoys combining various elements, such as color, texture, and form.
“She is a magnificent colorist,” said Sandra Bendor, the executive director of the gallery. “There is something vibrant about them but also muted, and they really draw you into the picture.”
Murals in chalk
Diaz said she started on her way to becoming an artist when she was a child growing up in Peru.
“I believe there is a purpose for me on this Earth and that it is to create art.” – Janet Diaz
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Diaz was determined to become an artist one day, though her parents didn’t seem to understand the importance of her ambition.
“Art, for me, is a way of life,” said Diaz. “It is the richest source for understanding the world. I believe there is a purpose for me on this Earth and that it is to create art. It is like I have always had something to say through my paintbrush, like a necessity.”
Bendor said, “I am always on the lookout for the people who are painting or making music because they have a real need inside and the talent to do it.”
As a student in Peru, Diaz studied painting and ceramic sculpture at the National School of Fine Arts and interior design at the Orval Art and Design Institute.
She has also exhibited her work in Peruvian galleries, including the National Museum, and since moving to the United States, in Hoboken at the Monroe Center for the Arts and several locations in New York City.
Diaz also teaches art classes at the New Life Adult Medical Day Care Center in Paramus, N.J.
Amanda Staab can be reached at astaab@hudsonreporter.com.