Jan Fabian Wallake, born in Toledo, Ohio, USA, in 1948, is a prominent artist currently based in Tucson, Arizona. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Bowling Green State University and has a distinguished background as an art director, having worked in the field for eight years post-college. Wallake is best known for her contemporary expressionist works, utilizing transparent watercolor, acrylics, and fine art mosaics. Her art is celebrated for its innovative use of geometric shapes interwoven with organic forms, creating a unique synthesis of line, shape, movement, and vibrant color.
Wallake's artistic practice is characterized by her exploration of nature, the human form, and landscapes through a contemporary lens. She employs a dynamic approach to painting, incorporating loose, flowing glazes of color that impart a fresh, luminous quality to her work. Her technique is marked by textural strokes that enhance the dramatic presence of her subjects. Wallake’s emphasis on shape development, patterns, and directional movement showcases her commitment to achieving a harmonious balance within her compositions. Her distinctive style is defined by a delicate interplay between geometric precision and organic fluidity, resulting in compelling visual narratives.
Jan Fabian Wallake's contributions to the art world extend beyond her studio practice. In 2001, she authored "Watercolor, Pour It On," published by Northlight Books, and has since traveled globally to conduct watercolor workshops based on her book. She also starred in a six-part televised instructional painting video series and founded the PaintPal Club, an online watercolor painting instruction platform. Wallake has been featured in notable magazines such as The Artist's Magazine and American Artist, and her work has appeared in books including “Splash 8,” “Splash 13,” “Painting Flowers in Watercolor,” and “The Artist's Answer Book.” Her accolades include the prestigious National Watercolor Society Award and recognition as a Signature Member of the RRWS, NPWS, TWSA, and Minnesota Watercolor Society.