Local artist Jacko Henry describes her style as colourful and detailed. This resonates particularly in her lifelike paintings of horses, one of her favourite subject matters. Here she tells The Impartial Reporter about her artistic background, her most ambitious piece to date and what her art means to her.

JC: What is your artistic background? Are you self-taught or did you go to art school/do courses?

JH: At a young age I was contented with crayons, pencils and painting on old pieces of wallpaper magical animals. I am a self taught artist. Later on in life I have done a foundation in Art and Design. HNC in Art.

JC: What inspires your art?

JH: My inspiration comes from life and nature. I have grown up with horses so particularly enjoy painting them.

JC: Who/what are your biggest influences?

JH: My influences are George Stubbs, Sir Alfred James Munnings and Irish Equine artist Tony O'Connor.

JC: Is there a specific place that you do your work? Do you have a studio?

JH: I do most of my work in my kitchen it is big, bright and looks over the countryside.

JC: What has been your most ambitious piece to date?

JH: My most ambitious work is a large 8ft x 4ft canvas. Depicting an old cow shed in Fermanagh. It was exhibited in the Clinton Centre in Fermanagh and went to be hung in the Strule Arts Centre, Omagh.

JC: What different artistic media do you use and which is your favourite?

JH: I love using all media; oils, acrylics, mixed media, clay and bronze. It's hard to choose a favourite but I'd say clay, the whole process is exciting.

JC: What are you currently working on?

JH: I am currently working on a self portrait, it's good to get out of my comfort zone.

JC: Do you exhibit your work anywhere?

JH: I have exhibited my work in Strule Art Centre and Clinton Centre.

JC: Any new artistic ventures planned for 2020?

JH: This year I am working on a series of Carousel horse paintings.

JC: What has been your favourite project to date?

JH: My favourite thing do date was doing a bronze casting course in The Foundry, Belfast it was fantastic! I was inspired by the Artist Betty Brown to do it.

JC: What are you up to when you aren’t creating art?

JH: When I'm not making art I am looking and reading about it.

JC: How would you describe your artistic style?

JH: My style is lifelike, colourful and detailed.

JC: What does your art mean to you?

JH: My art to me means freedom, a way I can express myself, beauty, emotion and power.