Nature | A Natural State - Episode 11

Janet prefers to use materials that "have lived a life," or show signs of age, use and decay. These elements help achieve a sense of harmony between the manmade and natural objects in her work. An interest in how we work with and against the natural world was cultivated by her mother, an avid environmentalist. As a child, Janet accompanied her mother on nature walks around Columbia, where they would discuss the complexity and vulnerability of the ecosystem. Their walks also grew a collection of natural artifacts such as bird nests and cicada shells. These items lived among a surplus of old chairs, curios, antiques, suitcases, and other inspired objects that filled Janet’s childhood home. An early desire to give the house full of objects "a purpose" is part of Janet’s inspiration as an artist.