Sensualized transcendence: Editorial and poem on the art of Jaanika Talts (part 1 of 2) - by Aberjhani

                                         (Photographed self-portrait of the artist Jaanika Talts)

Consider Jaanika Talts of Dublin, Ireland, one of those contemporary visual artists empowered by an instinct for classic literary style. As she puts it, “I mostly paint when I feel like I need to write a book (and it happens often) but painting my thoughts and stories on the canvas is so much easier for me.”

Visitors to Talts’ Facebook timeline can see for themselves that the literary company she keeps is one of cross-culture diversity.  A range of quotes from such powerhouses as African-American authors Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison to Canada’s as well as Sri Lanka’s Michael Ondaatje and famed American diarist Anais Nin (1903-1977) help to introduce and interpret her generously shared art. The same literary sensibility is apparent in her 2013 calendar, Camouflages. In it, she quotes the following from English novelist D.H. Lawrence (1885-1930):

“A woman unsatisfied must have luxuries. But a woman who loves a man would sleep on a board.”

And this by American author Cate Tiernan: “Fire is a fragile lover, court her well, neglect her not; her faith is like a misty smoke, her anger is destructive hot.”

Now is a particularly good time for those not already familiar with Talts’ captivating creations to acquaint themselves with her artistry. One reason for doing so is because she is based in Ireland and this is St. Patrick’s Day weekend. Another reason is because this is also Women’s History Month and therefore an appropriate time to acknowledge the endeavors of women artists who themselves are potential history makers. 

You can enjoy this article by Aberjhani in its entirety by clicking this link:
Sensual transcendence: Editorial and poem on the art of Jaanika Talts (part 1) - National African-American Art | Examiner.com