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ABOUT THE ARTIST

WanJean is a dynamic and visionary artist who is redefining the boundaries of portraiture through her pioneering technique, "Sculpture on Canvas." With a deep connection to her faith and a profound sense of purpose, Wanjean harnesses her unique artistic abilities to create striking, three-dimensional portraits that transcend the traditional canvas, capturing the essence of notable figures in a way that commands both attention and admiration.

 

Her career began in the vibrant 1970s, where her work was first showcased at the Fox Hills Mall in a televised art show, filmed by the Flip Wilson Show. This early success marked the start of a decades-long journey, during which wanjean honed her skills as a vendor in prestigious mall art shows across the Inland Empire and internationally. Studying under the esteemed Charles Bibbs, a globally recognized artist, Wanjean refined her craft in both clay sculpture and gold jewelry design, mastering lost wax casting at Cerritos College and spending 15 years designing original clay sculptures for the arts and crafts industry.

 

Sculpting on canvas has become Wanjean’s signature medium, blending her expertise in sculpture with the fluidity of painting to create visually stunning, tactile portraits that almost leap off the canvas. Her intricate designs elevate traditional portraiture into a multi-dimensional experience, making her work both visually arresting and emotionally resonant. wanjean’s mastery of this medium reflects over 30 years of experience working with clay and other materials, including her extensive work designing for Kraft companies prior to her retirement.

 

In 2015, Wanjean reentered the art world after retiring from corporate life, bringing with her a renewed sense of purpose and creative vision. It was during this time that she fully developed her groundbreaking "Sculpture on Canvas" style, a unique form of artistic expression that resonates deeply with audiences.

This style has allowed her to collaborate with legendary figures such as Stevie Wonder, whose endorsement opened doors to working with celebrated names like The New Edition, Lorenz Tate, and Fred Berry. These relationships further fueled Wanjean’s passion for creating art that not only captures the likeness but also tells the powerful stories of individuals who have shaped culture and history.

 

Wanjean's current project is a monumental endeavor aimed at honoring pioneers and influential figures through exclusive designs and personalized storylines. This PRIVATE Collection will be showcased in prominent museums and galleries worldwide, offering audiences a rare opportunity to engage with the untold stories of these trailblazers while celebrating their achievements. In addition to this work, Wanda is committed to nurturing the next generation of artists, collaborating with fellow creatives to establish mentorship programs that cultivate talent within underserved communities.

 

Her work speaks to the transformative power of art—bridging gaps, fostering understanding, and celebrating diversity. Wanjean's dedication to the art gallery industry is not only about showcasing her talents but also about creating a lasting impact on society through the stories her art tells and the lives it touches. Through her innovative "Sculpture on Canvas" technique, Wanjean is carving a new path in contemporary art, one that celebrates resilience, triumph, and the beauty of human diversity.

© 2021 WanJean 

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