Too soon...

In July 2003 I attended the Bathurst Winter Art School (on an Emerging Artist Grant), and spent a wonderful week in a mixed media workshop at Charles Sturt University. I lived on campus in a student house, along with about 7 other artists. My house held the 'New Zealand contingent' - and amongst them was Jan. She and I became firm friends - we were both doing the mixed media class, had a very similar sense of humour (irreverent and silly), and we both loved cryptic crosswords. She created striking abstract artworks (one of the hardest branches of art to master).

We've stayed in touch over the past 4 years. I introduced her to Iris, a Canberran artist friend who moved to New Zealand and became Jan's friend too. Only a few weeks ago she emailed me a funny story, and hoped "the crossword business is picking up."

I've just heard that Jan died in an accident on Sunday. It's unbelievable that she's gone - such a vibrant, funny, creative woman. I will miss her terribly, as I know her family and NZ friends will even more.