American born British artist Jill Leman was brought up in Essex and attended Colchester School of Art where she was fortunate to be taught by visiting tutors Edward Bawden & John Nash. Jill went on to the Central School of Art & Design, London (now CSM) to study Graphic Design. After several years working in publishing, both as ‘in house’ and freelance, Jill returned to painting and began exhibiting her work.

“In my paintings I am trying to coax a new image into existence – to get a response from the painting itself. I need to have a conversation, a relationship with the marks, colours and lines. This makes a difference as to whether a painting works or doesn’t work for me.”

Inspired by domestic subjects – flowers from the garden, a piece of china, the view from a window, Jill has discovered her own gentle style which explores and promotes colour & patterns found in nature and man-made objects – especially those she treasures. She employs delightful vibrant colours with an instant appeal and a talent for making each picture personal and cherished.

Jill’s paintings have been exhibited widely in the UK – mainly London,Cornwall & East Anglia. She has had several solo shows and her paintings have been in many mixed exhibitions including The Royal Academy Summer Exhibition.

Jill also shows paintings regularly with the Royal Society of British Artists at Mall Galleries and with The Royal Watercolour Society at Bankside Gallery. From 2017 – 2023 Jill served as the President of the RWS, the first female President in the Society’s 224 year history.

“I am hoping to give my paintings a life of their own so that they give out a feeling of calm and quietness. I’m trying to put a bit of magic into them.”