Jan Abbe A local artist brought Jan’s interest in the arts to life after she visited a local art show, a suggestion from her husband to escape the daily routine of raising four small children. She talked with the teacher, signed up for classes, and eventually began studying with others on the regional and national levels.

She has studied with wonderful teachers across the country who specialize in fine arts, still life, folk art, trompe l’oeil, decorative painted walls, and painted furniture.

One of Jan’s passions is painting Santa figures. She and her carver study Santas from the past as a source of inspiration using her extensive collection of books, postcards, and articles. They collaborate on the Santa to be carved, and Jan paints it after considering the appropriate colors and ornamentation. She uses acrylics for the base coat, applying multiple layers of paint and glaze to add depth and richness, finishing with a protective coat.

Jan and her husband live in the Midwest. With family members living on the East Coast, West Coast, and in Chicago, they travel often, searching out antiques stores, museums, and shows.