Proud to Support Local Artists – Jackie Swann

At George Yard, we’re incredibly proud to celebrate and support local talent, and few artists capture hearts and imaginations quite like Jackie Swann. A vibrant and passionate creative force, Jackie showcases her stunning work at Swann Gallery in George Yard, and you may have even seen her live painting during our monthly Artisan Market events!

Jackie’s story is proof that it’s never too late to pursue what you love. In her own words, she shares how art has transformed her life and become a powerful channel for expression, balance, and advocacy:

“I live in Braintree, and started focusing on my art late in life, I’m 53 this year.. Art is something that I’d recommend to everyone whether you are just making a pencil sketch, or experimenting more!   Art for me is relaxing and actually quite therapeutic. I still work full time with part of my week in London, so art is my work-life balance and fills every inch of my weekend and spare time. 
 
I started displaying my art in George Yard in Oct 2023, and have continued to display my work in various shop units since then, which has given me the opportunity to share my work with local people and to take part in the Artisan Market, for me personally it has given me confidence to take my art more seriously and hence I applied last year to Falmouth University to study a MA Fine Art degree (remotely).
 
The degree is two years in duration and I’m now working on the final module of my first year. I work in oil paint with palette knife, and really enjoy working in bold colours and on large canvases. I also sculpt in clay and have a growing collection of animal sculptures filling my home!  I paint and sculpt wild animals and have focused on this for the degree, as raising awareness of endangered animals and the environment is important to me. I like to use the beauty of the animals to generate interest and start conversations whilst being bright and joyful to look at.”
 
We’re honoured to be part of Jackie’s artistic journey and can’t wait to see what’s next as she continues to evolve and inspire. Be sure to visit Swann Gallery on your next trip to George Yard to experience her work in person!