Ching Ching
Known for her colourful and highly stylised depictions of natural subjects — from the underwater world to tropical landscapes — Jan Barwick’s Ching Ching depicts the painting’s namesake, black birds known for their playful birdsong and mischievous behaviour, framed by seagrape bushes and a view of Smith Barcadere, Grand Cayman in the distance. A popular bathing spot and beach for generations of Caymanians, Barwick’s treatment emphasises the timelessness of this tranquil scene.
About the Artist
Jan Barwick
b. 1953
Jan Barwick was born in New Zealand and spent her childhood in the Solomon Islands, Kiribati, and Malawi before becoming a resident of the Cayman Islands. She studied at Hornsey College of Art, London, and the Fine Arts Faculty of Florida State University. She was highly prolific through the late 1980s and early 1990s before relocating to France. Travel, a keen interest in ecology and wildlife, and an exceptional colour sense combine to make her a painter of unique vision. Known for their iconic subject matter and bright colour palette, many of her paintings have been used in the production and merchandising of decorative household objects. NGCI exhibitions include All Access (2015) and Tropical Visions (2019).
