Jane Koopman is a mixed media artist whose material of choice is garbage. From her studio in Hamilton, Ontario, she pieces together discarded elements in works of assemblage, textile, and collage to explore the beauty and complexity of people’s relationships with each other and with nature.

After earning her degree in English and History, Jane worked for many years as a writer andvideographer in the steel industry. The experience of working amidst the spectacular sights of steel production and living in the natural splendour of the Hamilton region inspired her to shift her career focus and devote her creative energy to fine art.

Repurposing and reusing has always fuelled Jane’s imagination. A first generation Canadian, she learned from her mother and grandmothers the values of resourcefulness, stewardship, and respect for the land. In her creative work, she challenges herself and those who interact with her art to rethink trash and reconsider what’s disposable and valueless. Another way she involves others into this process is to invite people to collect bits of garbage for her in what her collectors call “Jane Jars”.

Jane’s mixed media art, cards, and jewelry have been sold in galleries and art auctions in the Hamilton area. When she’s not making art, she’s thinking about it while working in her garden.