We recently connected with Janet Dupuis and have shared our conversation below.

Janet , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

My artistic journey began when I was six. My family bought a set of encyclopedias — each one featuring fine art on its cover. I would spend hours examining the details: prehistoric cave paintings, intricate Greek vessels, Roman mosaics, medieval tapestries, and Leonardo da Vinci’s flying machines. These images sparked my fascination with art and taught me to carefully observe everything. By the time I was twelve, I knew I was an artist. I began reading about famous painters, experimenting with different materials, and saving my chore money to buy art supplies. I filled sketchbooks with drawings and copied masterpieces to learn about color mixing and composition. Eventually, my basement became a creative hub where my friends and I collaborated on large-scale mixed media collages and taught each other drawing, painting, and other art techniques. I was hooked— on creating, experimenting, learning and sharing everything related to art.

Janet , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’m an artist and art educator based in Central Massachusetts, where I find endless inspiration in the natural world. My work explores landscapes and abstract compositions that aim to capture the essence of a place—the emotions it evokes and the energy it holds.
I am an intuitive painter and I utilize materials instinctively in my process. This instinctive approach allows more freedom and experimentation. I’m inspired by the interplay of layered paint, shapes, and color. As a piece evolves, I respond to the visual dialogue between us. My unique style reflects personal experiences, travels, and a deep connection to nature. I strive to create honest, heartfelt work that resonates emotionally— inviting viewers to pause, reflect on the world’s beauty and the sense of discovery it offers.”
My passion for both art and education naturally led me to a career as an art teacher. Outside the studio, I find immense fulfillment teaching middle school students. Helping them tap into their creativity and express themselves through art is a rewarding part of my life. To me, art education is a calling that continues to evolve and inspire.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I earned my Associate of Fine Arts degree at the local community college, supported by parents who encouraged my creativity while also worrying about financial stability. I understood their concerns. At a high school assembly for juniors, we were shown education requirements and salary ranges for various professions—’Artist’ was the only one listed with a salary of ‘0 to ?’
With that reality in mind, I planned to pursue a career as both a practicing artist and certified art teacher. However, a new law passed in my state that drastically cut public school funding, and more than 25% of art and music teachers were laid off. Faced with this uncertainty, I made the difficult decision to pivot toward my second passion: science.
I changed my major, earned an Associate of Science degree, completed six months of clinical lab experience, and became a certified medical lab technician. While the work was rewarding, I deeply missed art. My rotating work schedule made it nearly impossible to continue my education in the evenings, and the creative void grew. To reconnect, I took a weekend job assisting art classes at the Worcester Art Museum. Working in such a resource-rich environment reignited my passion for teaching art.
Eventually, my schedule opened up enough to take evening classes. I went on to earn my BA in Studio Art and my Massachusetts Teacher Certification. After securing a teaching position, I pursued a Master’s degree in the same field. Balancing full-time work and an active art practice hasn’t been easy—but it’s been a journey worth taking.”

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Two books have significantly influenced my philosophy and practice. Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards helped enhance my observational and drawing skills. The exercises are freeing, meditative, and especially helpful when teaching beginners.
More recently, How To Be An Artist by Jerry Saltz has become a go-to resource. Every creative person should read this motivating handbook. It’s packed with prompts, insights on developing a practice, and encouragement to believe in your work, embrace your weaknesses, and focus on what matters most: work, practice, persistence—and then more work.”

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.janetdupuisart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janet.dupuis
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Janet Dupuis

Image Credits

Guy Biechele