Justina Kervel was born on April 27th, 1975 in North Vancouver. When she was 8 years old she relocated to Great Yarmouth, England with her family. During this time Justinas gift of imagination and drawing was becoming exceedingly apparent.
Justina returned to Canada in the late 80s and while still a child continued to unknowingly expand her abilities. As time passed she continued to hone her craft tenaciously using any method that was available to her: drawing, painting, wood burning, clay, soapstone, etc. Excelling in the arts program both in High School and College she became increasingly frustrated with the constraints of the various programs and decided to pursue a multitude of other career possibilities including landscaping and veterinary science.
While she found enjoyment within the alternatives the desire to be creative and expand her forever-youthful imagination had been indelibly imprinted on the young artist for as long as she could remember. Next step: Europe or bust.
During her time abroad Justina further explored and cultivated her skills finding herself training under various celebrated European artists. To make a long and inspiring story short: Justina worked endlessly and upon her return to Vancouver opened the doors to Liquid Amber Tattoo in 2001.
Liquid Amber is noted as one of the best and most prominent tattoo establishments in the country. She has been recognized at worldwide levels doing everything from numerous television/radio spots, write-ups and reviews in major art publications, to winning awards at international tattoo conventions.
As running a successful business can be known as quite the time-suck, In the midst of the ascent of Liquid Amber Tattoo she still continued to culminate the other aspects of her artistry with her painting; something that is not only thoroughly enjoyable, but also Justinas own release and sense of regeneration. Her unique and vivid images blended with a gallant technique and explosive use of colour has caused a subsequent flood of recognition and appreciation.
Over the last decade Justina has had several highly successful gallery showings. But what makes her work so different?
Perhaps it is the level of catharsis and life-experience riddled in Justinas work that has garnered her the attention that shes achieved over the years. Her use of vibrant colour mixed with realism as well as a sense of vivid imagination intertwined with a somewhat desolate theme equates to eye-catching pieces that all have a story. As a viewer it is both enjoyable and addicting to assess and give an analytical synopsis on what you believe the piece is to be about.
While she dabbles in multiple styles, her imagination tends to take her to the more Pop Surrealism variety.
Ive always lived in my head explains Kervel. Theres a whole world that exists up there and its a constant battle to get it out.
While her various accolades are appreciated, the humble Justina notes that this is not nor ever has been why she does what she does. Kudos and money come and go but the satisfaction and necessity of her creations are what keeps her here. Ill never be finished she adds.
Exhibits across Canada, United States and beyond are in the works.
