Janice Aponte

Biography

I am a native Puerto Rican born in Ponce and raised in New York City.  At the age of 15, I returned to Puerto Rico and remained there until my search for a brighter future brought my family to Chicago.  My professional background is in Business with a major in Accounting.  I currently live in the Northwest side of the city with my sons, Ruben and Bryan and continue to work in accounting.

                I did not truly find my voice in the arts until somewhat later in my life.  Nonetheless, art has always been a part of me.  It was not until a few years ago, however, that I discovered I had a real passion for it.  I enrolled in a local art center and my teacher and friend, Cecilia, encouraged me tremendously and helped me channel and refine my artistic creativity.  I have always admired artists such as Pablo Picasso,  Frida Kahlo and  Wichie Torres.  I have been deeply moved and influenced by their work and the work of many others.

Artist Statement

                What inspires me to paint are my life experiences, my surroundings, where the day takes me, someone or some place special.  The inspiration flows from deep within my soul.  I have experimented with pencils, charcoals and acrylics but prefer oils.  I am very detail oriented by nature and this medium allows me to express myself with few limitations.

                My style and the subjects of my work vary depending upon what I am going through in my life at any given moment and the mood of my spirit.  I paint to escape from my every day hectic routine and to enrich my day to day reality.  Painting is my peace.  It takes me to a place within that is completely my own.  Physically, this place is my living room during the quiet, late hours when everyone is sleeping.  While they are dreaming in their sleep, my brush dances over my canvas and I am dreaming too.