Light, Depth, Vibrant Color - these are the tools Jan Taylor uses to capture her timeless images. She has an intimate respect for the subjects she paints and is a gifted interpreter of ancient memories. Her unique talents in watercolor, bring an energy and freedom to such varied subjects as, wildlife, man's relationship with nature an life in the west. Of the time she spends researching her subjects Jan says, "I enjoy sharing the experiences of different cultures. Seeing how 'we are all a part of the plan' through being involved with all creatures. Understanding their perspective and setting my own aside long enough to hear their truth has given me a deeper relationship with myself and others. So much of what I strive for is an authenticity, honoring what's real and true in my work."

Life in the west is the subject of much of Jan's work. Wildlife and man's relationship to it, are the basis for her southwestern themes. She takes great care in giving her animal subjects the power of emotion. The expression in the animal's face and eyes are a trademark of her work. Jan believes that through her art, the animals she paints have a voice that calls on each of us to think about our world a little more, and take our environment a bit more seriously.

Her human subjects are a mixture of cultures, from the mystical power of the Native American to the spirit of today's cowboy. Many of her pieces combine man with animal to show the connection we share with every living creature. Jan says, "The Native Americans of the Southwest lived in harmony with nature and the land. We need to re-learn the ancient lessons if we are to endure." Her "cowboy" series, an upbeat group of paintings, depicts the genuine, caring, no-hurry feeling of the west and has a reverence for the past.