Kendahl Jan Jubb

Kendahl Jan Jubb was born in Mt. Holly, New Jersey in l957. She was raised in St. Louis Missouri until l976 when she moved to Missoula, Montana to major in forestry, probably influenced by memories of summers spent at her Grandparent’s place on Flathead Lake, Montana. Lacking funds for paintings to decorate her college apartment, she began to make her own paintings. This became so engrossing, she switched her major to art. Now, years later, she supports herself solely with her art.

The most common themes in her work are flora and fauna. An active bird watcher, Kendahl paints local fish and birds, but also more exotic tropical species and floral arrangements. Her style is distinctive. Using black gouache, she has evolved a distinctive technique using black to fill areas of negative space. Vibrant watercolors within outlines create strong patterns. In fact, patterns are an essential part of the dramatic energy in her work. Contrasts in size, shape, texture and value are elements she uses. She places round shapes next to long, thin shapes, a pattern of ripples next to rounded objects with a dappled texture, geometric pattern against organic, and leopard spots with feather shapes. But with all the energy and movement she creates, Jubb avoids chaos with a careful balance provided by contrast and by repeating certain pattern elements throughout the composition. She says that creating patterns and painting them is a joyous process for her.

Kendahl has appeared in over twenty galleries from Mexico to Maryland. She has been commissioned by such corporations as the Bonneville Power Administration, the Peabody Hotel chain and the Four Seasons Hotel in Singapore. Her watercolors have also appeared in several publications including the Artist Magazine, Magical Blend magazine and Southwest Art Magazine. Kendahl has recently illustrated three books for children including,FLASHY FANTASTIC RAIN FOREST FROGS with vivid lush illustrations and BOLD AND BRIGHT BLACK AND WHITE ANIMALS.