After stepping away from painting to build a career in hairdressing, Jana reignited her passion during lockdown, creating vibrant, nature-inspired artworks that capture joy and personal meaning.
Johannesburg, South Africa (12 March 2026) – For Jana Aspeling, watching her large artworks being carefully lifted and installed into their new home was a deeply emotional reminder of a journey that had come full circle. One that began years earlier as a young art student and eventually led back to the passion.
Jana says creativity has been part of her life for as long as she can remember.
“I think my first memories as a, even a little girl, was that I was always creating.”
That creativity eventually led her to study Fine Arts at Stellenbosch University. However, like many young artists trying to find their voice, the path was not always straightforward.
After completing her studies, Jana stepped away from the art world and built a successful career in hairdressing, eventually running her own business. While she loved working with people, the creative spark never fully disappeared. It was the COVID-19 lockdown that unexpectedly reignited it.
“We all felt cooped up. Some people took up gym, but that’s not what I did. I started painting.”
Jana began sharing her paintings online, often featuring birds, florals and vibrant colours inspired by nature. What started as a personal creative outlet soon gained attention and, of course, sales.
“As I started posting paintings, they just sold,” she says.
The sudden response felt like a moment of clarity.
“It felt like I was getting this ‘aha’ moment, like I was being shown a path.”
Today, nature remains central to Jana’s work. Her paintings often include hidden elements that hold personal meaning for the people who commission them. In one recent artwork, each bird even carries the birth date of a family member.
“I want the painting to be something that becomes like a family heirloom. Something that can be passed from generation to generation.”
For Jana, colour is the language through which she communicates most clearly.
“I can express myself in colour better than in words. Colour lifts the soul without saying a word.”
More than anything, Jana hopes her art brings joy to those who see it.
“If someone stands in front of my work and just feels happiness, then I’ve achieved what I wanted.”
Looking back on her journey, she believes every step played a role even the years away from art.
“Everything I’ve done, from hairdressing to learning new skills, has played a part in how I create today.”
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