Jane Jaskevich shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Jane, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What makes you lose track of time—and find yourself again?
When I get involved in the act of creating a sculpture in my studio I forget that I may be tired or upset. My inner clock is late afternoon into evening so many times I do not get into the studio until noon and before I know it it is 7 or 8 at night. The act of problem solving creates energy in my brain and my body.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a sculptor who is lucky enough to have my studio in my backyard . I have a view of the NC Appalachian mountains and about 20 or more wild turkeys that serenade me often. My two dogs keep me company running on my two acres. I create figurative and mountain animal sculptures from stone and wood.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
Over the years of creating art I have learned that there seems to be a force that takes over my actions as I am creating. If I trust that force which I normally do the results will be perfect. Any problem or break in the stone will end up with a great ending. The force may be my own creative self or the creative flow of the universe or God.. Obviously it helps me to be a better and happier artist.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
There has been several wounds in my life. The first trauma 9/11. I watched the planes fly into the world trade towers and my belief that my life was safe melted away. I created a series of Greek inspired stone figures to help me relieve my grief. The first democracy was an inspiration..Wounded warriors and ailing gods. in stone… I have also had the loss of a loved one that has devastated me. My mind was so clouded with grief that I could not sculpt for 6 months but I did work in my garden. I planted many trees and bushes and my busy body allowed my damaged soul to heal. People told me to keep busy. Keeping busy was not enough for me. I had to contribute to the beauty of nature to feel better. To be so tired from your endeavors that there was no energy to think. When I sculpt now I feel I do not really stop and think. I instead react to the work
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I am committed to being at peace with myself and my life and my decisions on how to live that life.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What will you regret not doing?
I regret not moving from the big city of Atlanta to the mountains of the Appalachians sooner. My partner died before we had fully moved here to the Asheville area. I wish he was still alive to enjoy this amazing place with its wonderful, music, food, hikes, rivers , mountains and people.. It is a place that makes one peaceful every day as you see the sun rise and set over the mountains. It is like the ocean..Monumental and seemingly immortal
Contact Info:
- Website: https://jaskevich.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaskevich_sculptor/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jane.jaskevich
