Jean Withington Yedkois is, as they say, a true "Florida Native," born and raised along the Gulf Coast of Florida.  She is an Artist, High School Educator, Mother and Grandmother.

 

Growing up in Seminole, Florida in the 70’s, her parents exposed her to the abundant nature around her.  Taking walks, looking for artifacts, camping and exploring on the weekends helped shape her love of the outdoors. Later, she continued the tradition of observing and exploring natural places of Florida and the country with her children. She can’t remember a time when Art and Nature weren't a guiding force in her life. 

 

Jean started drawing at a young age, inspired by her Father, an artist. The Art room was a special place to create in her parents home. Working in the art field has also been a constant in her life.  First, painting birds in a woodcarving shop in St. Petersburg after High school, working as a Commercial artist in a television station, and family business, then finally as a teacher.

 

Capturing Nature's treasures, is the inspiration for her Watercolor paintings.  Juxtaposing layers of transparent earthy color with vibrant color, dominate her watercolor paintings. This, along with fine detail, give her work the look of a colored pencil drawing.  Each painting takes months to complete.

 

Her training in Art includes:  Ringling School of Art in Sarasota,

St. Petersburg College, and later earning her Bachelor's Degree at the University of South Florida in Visual and Vocational Art Education.  She has been teaching at the High School level for the past 31 years.

 

By showing her love for art through both teaching and producing art, her hope is that she will give her students a deeper insight into the satisfaction of being a practicing artist.

 

Professional Memberships

Florida Watercolor Society

Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society

(PAEA) Pinellas Art Educators Association

(PAVA) Professional Association of Visual Artist