Cottage conversations: artist Janey Forbes 

Artist Janey Forbes’ passion for nature, largely the ocean, is as clear as the water this morning at Queenscliff. It was a natural fit for our children’s charity to collaborate with the local artist on this year’s Cottage Christmas card collection.

For the project, Janey painted two beautiful, bright artworks of iconic beach experiences participants enjoy on our programs. The artist generously donated these artworks to our charity. The original framed artworks will adorn the walls at Cottage for visiting children to admire, and the artworks have been digitalised to create this year’s Christmas cards and a greeting card collection.

Cottage Beach holds a meaningful place in Janey’s heart. “This happens to be my families’ special beach. My parents live not far from Cottage by the Sea, so we are at this beach all the time. It’s my family’s favourite place to be,” Janey shares.

“I love Cottage by the Sea and what you do,” Janey says while waves crash in the background. The artist is watching this week’s participants boogie-board at Cottage Beach – the children’s laughter punctuates the soothing sounds of the ocean. “I just love supporting this wonderful organisation,” Janey continues, smiling.

The artworks, titled I Caught a Wave and I Saw a Fish, illustrate two water-based activities visiting children cherish fondly along this iconic seascape – boogie-boarding and snorkelling. When creating these artworks, it was a somewhat effortless process for Janey: “This beach is very special to my family and I, so these artworks came very easily. They happened very naturally.”

Feeling inspired by and connected to the beach is a philosophy Janey shares with Cottage children: “The beach is everything to my family and I. We’re at the beach any chance we get. It’s good for the soul, isn’t it? It makes you feel alive.”

The artist’s philanthropy spirit is akin to the warmth of the morning’s sunbeams. “Giving all these kids this opportunity… I mean, look at them – what it’s giving them is immeasurable,” Janey says as the children squeal in delight in the background. “It’s memories they’ll treasure forever, and for their families.”

The limited-edition Christmas card collection and greeting cards will be available to purchase on Cottage’s website and at our upcoming Annual Fair. All cards purchased from this special project will help ensure even more children can experience the joy of these ocean experiences.

For more information about Janey and her colourful creations, visit her website and Instagram.