Jan Mills

Jan Mills lives and works in rural Eastern Ontario. His work is largely informed by his surroundings and demonstrates his keen sense and handling of found-objects and natural materials.

Through mixed-media paintings and found-object sculptures, Jan brings sometimes seemingly unrelated materials and imagery together in new, inspiring scenarios.

Birch bark becomes still water, gnawed beaver sticks become enigmatic wall sculptures, and blown tire fragments evolve into majestic crow sculptures.

Often working in series, Jan explores both subject and material. Each work stands on its own. Collectively, they become elements in a much larger conversation.

“I see myself as a collaborator in the process. The materials I use and the subjects that inspire me have something to say. My role is to help those messages be presented in interesting ways.” - Jan Mills

Jan’s development as an artist has been greatly influenced by two generous mentors; one a master watercolorist who provided a strong foundation of process and practical skills and the other a senior artist, author, and educator who guided Jan toward his unique voice and visual vocabulary.

Jan’s work can be found in private collections across Canada and the USA.