Jay Norman

South African 1909-1999 Born in 1909 in Kroonstad, Orange Free State, Jay Norman learned painting from her artistic mother and became a full-time artist. Experimenting with watercolour, brushes, colour and a palette knife, she developed a distinctive style, evolving from dark, loose paintings to cheerful scenes of everyday life. Though initially influenced by Irma Stern and Maggie Laubser, Jay Norman preferred painting everyday objects and landscapes. Her colourful still lifes featured flowers and scenes from her home, from food-laden tables to cosy interiors and views from her window. She often painted people, such as anglers with their catch or girls with flowers, creating accessible, enjoyable scenes. Jay added a title, signature and date to each painting’s back and preferred handmade white or beige frames.