Step Into The Picture artist Janet Howkins named 'Manc of the Month'

Janet Howkins, who heads up the Step In The Picture studio at Leigh Spinners Mill, was given the recognition by Cotton On Mcr, an organisation that specialises in exhibitions and the promotion of Greater Manchester based artists.

Launching her first studio in Manchester in 2015, the mixed media artist specialises in unique memorial painting and sculptures, using natural materials and taking inspiration from nature and people.

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Janet went full time with her art project in 2021 (Image: Janet Howkins)

The idea for Janet's project came about in 2008 following the death of her mother, as she preserved the flowers from the funeral and created small memorials for her loved ones to remember her by.

Striving to create this experience for others, Janet has worked on countless projects for weddings, funerals, or other significant events to create lasting memories and bring people's stories and memories to life.

As her work has gathered enough momentum, she decided to leave her corporate role in 2021 and take on her art adventure full-time.

Janet takes inspiration from nature and people in her work (Image: Janet Howkins)

Speaking about her 'Manc of the Month' recognition, Janet said: "I am absolutely honoured to be acknowledged by Cotton On Mcr. For an organisation like Cotton On, who work with a huge number of artists on exhibitions and events, this is a great opportunity for me to promote my creative journey and the work that I do for the community."

She continued: "The work that I carry out is not just about my creativity. When somebody commissions a memorial, it is more than just a picture, it is a journey.

"From the initial consultation, whether it be a memory of the best day of their life, or about the most important person in their life, the client who is commissioning me has as much involvement as I do."

Janet's work has earned her the 'Manc of the Month' recognition (Image: Janet Howkins)

Jo Platt, the General Manager of Leigh Spinners Mill said, "This is a great accolade for Janet and the wonderful work that she does.

"We are just so honoured that Janet is based here at the mill, putting Leigh firmly on the map for creative talent."

Another example of Janet's art (Image: Janet Howkins)