Davison’s connection to paintings provides meaning

9/6/2023

Like some artists, Jan Davison began her career with a “realistic” job, working as a graphic designer, which paid the bills. Yet, her dream job as an artist was always in the back of her mind.

Davison attended Drake University, and, as a junior, she studied in Florence, Italy, taking only art and language classes. 

“In the midst of it all, it was a wonderful, life-changing experience for me,” she said.

She graduated from Drake, studying graphic design and journalism. She established a freelance graphic design business, working from home, allowing her to care for her young daughter. 

“In the old days, clients used to come to my house, and I’d get an assignment,” she recalls. 

For 25 years, her home business was ideal, until her daughter graduated from high school. She reflected on what she wanted from her career. In 1999, the church she attended offered a group art exhibit on a specific theme. Creating on a large canvas wasn’t her typical way to express herself, but she reluctantly took on the challenge. Yet, that challenge fueled her fine art career.

Since then, her artwork consists of pastel drawings, acrylic painting and mixed media pieces. She likes shiny pops of color. Foremost on her mind is creating something positive. 

“I always like to express something positive, pleasant or inspiring,” she said. “Many paintings trigger a memory, and people buy my art because it makes a connection in their life.”

She explains a favorite spot is on the North Shore of Lake Superior. She drew a pastel of a shore and displayed the artwork. 

“A woman came up and asked where I painted it. She told me that she had a cabin on the other side of the trees that I had just painted,” she explains. “She bought it because of that connection. It was meaningful to me.”

One of her goals as an artist is to make a difference. Early in the 2000s, she began a project called “Charitable Creations.” She offers an art show in a person’s home and gives 25% to the charity the host selects for any art sold. 

“I wanted to make a difference. Art, in itself, does make a difference, but I wanted to use my gifts for a wider benefit,” she reflects. “It’s satisfying to do that.

Davison also writes poetry. She paired one poem with a painted red cardinal. She’s connected the symbolism, that if people see a cardinal, it means a loved one has visited. Many people buy her red cardinal print and poem, reminding them of their loved ones. 

Davison serves on the Westminster Presbyterian Church’s visual arts committee. A gallery at the church and in the sanctuary offers artists a chance to display their work, with various themed art shows. 

She doesn’t have a social media presence and instead sells by word of mouth or at shows.

“I like the creating part, but I’m not keen on promoting. I don’t sell online. I like personal contact. I’m comfortable with what I do. I’m not in it to become rich and famous,” she reflects. “If other people like it, I’m pleased.” ♦