Janis Woode
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Janis Woode, originally from Prince Rupert, B.C., has always had a passion for creativity and craftsmanship. Her journey as an artist began humbly in community centers, where she took her first steps into the world of art through basic clay hand-building courses. These early experiences sparked her curiosity and drive to explore more. Eager to hone her skills, she pursued formal training at the renowned Emily Carr College of Art and Design, later graduating from the prestigious Clay and Textile program at Capilano College. This solid foundation helped shape her distinctive artistic voice.
While Woode initially gained recognition for her captivating figurative sculptures, her artistic focus has recently evolved. She has ventured into the world of non-figurative work, embracing a new creative challenge. In her own words, "With these non-figurative pieces, the challenge is to breathe life or movement into the inanimate. I am inspired by the human condition and personal experience." This shift allows her to push boundaries, creating sculptures that provoke thought and stir emotions without relying on the human form.
In her practice, Woode draws inspiration from the rich metaphors embedded in everyday objects like old truck hoods, typewriters, and kitchen utensils. These seemingly mundane items hold stories of their own, and in Woode’s hands, they take on new life. Many of these objects live in her studio for years, patiently awaiting their transformation as she listens for their hidden narratives to surface. Her ability to infuse her work with meaning and movement, even in the inanimate, is a testament to her skill and creative vision.
A true lover of metal in all its forms, Woode finds joy in discovering materials for her sculptures. Frequenting scrapyards, secondhand stores, and metal recycling bins, she sources objects with history and character, each piece adding depth and texture to her work. Her appreciation for the raw beauty of metal reflects in her pieces, which are at once industrial and deeply expressive.
Over the years, Janis Woode has earned recognition as an award-winning sculptor, with her work featured in private collections both in Canada and internationally. Her journey from community art classes to celebrated sculptor is a testament to her dedication, evolving vision, and ability to find inspiration in both the human condition and the world of objects around us.
