I was due to photograph Jan as part of my Golden age project last year, but she had some bad luck health wise, as did I, so it never really worked out for us timing wise.
Thankfully the universe gave us our chance today, & wow I am so glad I got to capture her.
Jan is 82 years old, & her horse Amigo in his twenties. They have been together for 17 years.
Jan grew up in Sydney's eastern suburbs. She left school at 14to become a "copy girl" at Sydney Morning Herald. At 16 she was given as art cadetship which changed her life. It meant she was able to attend East Sydney art college & immerse herself in the wonderful bohemian life.
In 1966 she set off to explore Europe for 3 magical years. The highlight being a trip through Turkey, Iran, Pakistan & best of all India.
Returning home to Australia, she worked in advertising, then finally publishing. Jan had several books published.
In 1970 she met her Husband & had one precious little girl.
They travelled abroad together, she said they were gypsies at heart.
During this time Jan discovered her love of horses, and long distance riding.
She managed to achieve 3 of the iconic 400klm Shahzada & 3 Tom Quilty rides. Seh holds a trophy for completing 10,000klm of marathon rides.
After a marriage breakup Jan met her prince charming, they have been together for 22 years.
They were living in Old Bar NSW on a magnificent property when the 2019 fires devastated the region. Jan's art studio was burnt to the ground, & in it all of her illustrations, painting, & books.. her life's work... all gone.
In addition to that they lost cattle &one of her horses.
The only copies of her books she has now, are those she managed to find that others owned. She has been trying to look into getting them reprinted, but it's been difficult for her to find something to suit.
Jan still tries to ride her beloved Amigo once a week, & still trail rides.
Jan has 3 beautiful grandchildren, and now resides in Cooranbong.
