
Bringing the unconscious into awareness,
like meditation, my art is a vessel for alchemy. It quiets distractions, gives form to resistance, and catalyzes transformation through the process of co-creation.
Many art lovers hesitate to invest
in their inspiration and joy.
Lull Opening at Gallery 495, Catskill New York, 9/14/24
Title: Triptych
Medium: Various hand sewn vintage fabric, paper, yarn and notions
Do you find yourself:
• Struggling to justify investing in art?
• Doubting your intuition when choosing the right piece?
• Feeling uncertain about adding more “things” to your life?
I believe that when you fill your life with what inspires you, the world opens up unexpected pathways to joy.
Ignite Self Actualization
Surrounding yourself with art that reflects your personal style empowers you to live authentically and embrace your truth.
Everyone has the potential to create meaningful art. If you’re ready to awaken your inner artist, let my art and classes inspire and guide you.
Unleash Your Creativity
Break Through Limitations
My approach accompanies you out of your comfort zone, helping you see the world from a fresh perspective and adding a new dimension to life.
Le Sarah Bernhardt.
2 Place Du Chatelet, 75004 Paris
8 November 2024
I know that purchasing art can be challenging.
I understand what it’s like when you want to express yourself, but you hesitate. Fear holds you back. Like many, you may have been taught to see art as nonessential. You end up stuck in indecision, instead of following your creative inspiration.
I believe art is a sacred collaboration with something greater than ourselves. Investing in it is a powerful form of healing and self-care.
Having faced trauma, addiction, and divorce, I know what it’s like to try to fill an endless void. Through art, I found a way to connect with my Source. From gestural watercolors to intricate collages, my work embraces the human experience and growth.
For 25 years, I’ve helped others find refuge and self-discovery through art. My work invites viewers to reshape their beliefs, break free from limiting self-talk, and live authentically.
In my workshops, I guide artists to discover unexpected truths and talents, using art as a path to self-actualization. My classes support beginners to create mature works while encouraging risk-taking and problem-solving as part of the creative process.
Ultimately, I believe that art isn’t
an accessory—it’s essential to life.

Career Highlights
Owner/Curator
Adam Street Gallery (Delmar, NY)
2000-2002
Artist Residencies
Historic Dune Shack of Provincetown, Polli Talu, Estonia, and more
James Demetrion, Director of Hirschhorn Museum, Washington, DC, 60th Annual National Exhibit of Contemporary Art
Exhibit in Palm Beach, Florida
Student Words
“You helped me find the artist in me”
Oh Joan! I so appreciate that you helped me find the artist in me - I don't think it's every art teacher who could so lovingly "draw" that out of his/her pupils (see what I did there? You really opened up my world to finding the creativity within. I love you and hope to see you in many of the art classes and events!
-Renee
Joanie, our time together as a group of novice abstract artists, exploring, learning and growing together, has been so special! As our instructor and leader you have been superb. I so appreciate your on-going, steadfast commitment to our artistic development and, might I say, success! I know I've learned and grown in so many unexpected ways. Remember way back when I declared to you that I had no artistic ability? That myth has been dispelled!
-Steph
The marvel that Joan has been for me! For us! Joan has created the artistic space from which I have gone where I would not otherwise have gone. Thank you Joan for the stand for our creativity you have been. You have left a legacy from your contribution to us. I'm confident that there will be more opportunities for creative artistic self expression amongst us. Meanwhile, let us each celebrate our artistic growth & celebrate Joan!
-Andrew
Services
Instruction
Intimate events for new artists.
Collage
Drawing
Painting
Photography
Printmaking
Textiles
Art
Originals, prints and commissions.
Critique
Individual guidance to mature your work.
Introducing:
The Legacy Project
Transform items from the back of your closet into a Bespoke Keepsake Collage
Celebrate your personal history
Receive a timeless artwork that will tell your story for generations to come
Give new life to your letters, cards and other memorabilia
How to Commission your Legacy Piece:
Step 1:
Get in Touch
Send me a message and we’ll set up a time to talk about your legacy.
Step 2:
Create a plan
We’ll discuss options and come up with a custom approach.
Step 3:
Bring your legacy to life
Enjoy your custom legacy piece for years and generations to come.
Reviews & Praise
Siren Song, Best of Show
“Her work effortlessly transcends the medium and transports the viewer into another world and deep within another soul.
Cathleen Clayton
Clayton Gallery,
Tampa Florida.
Intersecting Grace
“Oliver’s innovative take on the previous century’s modernist legacy evokes the rich color and texture of Swiss modernist Paul Klee but with her own distinct geometry, fluidity and swirling movement.”
Robert R. Shane, Ph.D.
Meredith & Joan, Sept ‘24
“Joan Oliver's practice is as contemplative as the resulting pieces. Her universe is poetic, an inner journey that invites the viewer to take a walk alongside her, to follow her spirit directly.”
Meredith Rosier,
Faculty Woodstock School of Art

Don’t keep your Muse waiting!
Together, let’s empower your creative vision. Let art be your pathway to self-actualization.