Jan Beaney and Jean Littlejohn: Rhythms & Reflections
Jan and Jean have worked as friends and colleagues for over 45 years, forming Double Trouble in 1997 to publish books and DVDs.
They share a creative philosophy but their work is very different, and in this exhibition you will see the pieces they created during lockdown up to the present day.
Double Trouble is a joint venture and works because they have shared responsibilities and work ethics. They have regular meetings and discussions but when it comes to their own work they do so independently of each other. Each works in their own studio space but can be there to offer advice and support when invited. During lockdown they were both motivated to work, and this exhibition shows the developed pieces from then to this summer.
The Wetlands of Lefkada, Greece, are Jan’s inspiration. Luckily, she had observed and sketched the location for several years and was able to use this reference during lockdown and since. Capturing the essence of this landscape proved to be a challenge. The colours and organic growth patterns provided the initial fascination. Excitement followed by observations of the lush, overgrown variety of grasses, which offered layers of glorious textures yet still maintain the rhythms and constrictions of the tidal waterways. Intriguing light and atmospheric changes in early evening and after sundown have led to developing new focal points. Exaggerating certain aspects and understating others lead to individual responses. Sadly, its time may be limited due to climate change.
Jean continues to be fascinated by the natural cycles and rhythms that impact our lives, and she reflects on how our ancestors viewed these phenomena as evidenced in cultural myths and legends.
During lockdown, the phases of the moon embodied continuity and reassurance in an uncertain world and became the focus of her work. Moon mythology informed pieces such as ‘Wolf Moon’ and ‘Sturgeon Moon’, whereas other works were responses to night-time observations of atmospheric cloud framed moons.
‘What Goes Around’ and ‘Gathering Momentum’ reference the universal circle and comment on the nature of waxing and waning in relation to fads and fashions.