We were thrilled to hear gallery artist Janette Cervin and her partner in both life and art, Jake Kennedy, featured recently on the Creative Connections podcast (formerly Creative Matters) with our friend and fellow arts advocate Mandy Jakich.

In this beautifully generous conversation, Mandy speaks with Janette about her richly layered painting practice — one that invites viewers into immersive worlds of Aotearoa flora and fauna, rendered with exquisite detail and emotional resonance. Janette reflects on the personal and professional experiences that have shaped her creative journey, from an early career in craft and decorative painting to her decision to pursue formal academic study later in life, completing a Master of Fine Arts in 2014.

Listeners are treated to insights into her unique techniques — from folk art-inspired brushwork to her use of different brushes for different parts of her floral forms — and the happy accidents that guide her evolving practice.

Partway through the episode, we’re warmly welcomed into the dynamic creative partnership Janette shares with Jake, who plays an essential role in her work through the application of glossy, layered resin. Jake speaks candidly about his technical processes: experimenting with colour, working with pigments and dyes, and the intricate sanding, layering, and reconstructing involved in the resin application. Together, they form a formidable team — one built on trust, shared vision, and a deep respect for one another’s contributions.

It’s a generous and inspiring episode, and a joy to hear two lovely New Zealanders speak so openly about their art, their collaboration, and the life they’ve built around both.

You can listen to the full episode on the Creative Connections podcast now below or here.

To view all available works by Janette Cervin, click here.