Janet Ayliffe is an Australian artist renowned for her evocative etchings and watercolour paintings that celebrate the natural world. Born in 1950 on a sheep farm in Kingscote, Kangaroo Island, she spent her formative years immersed in the island's scrublands and beaches, experiences that continue to inspire her work today.
Ayliffe graduated in 1972 with a Fine Art Painting degree from the South Australian School of Art. Over her extensive career, she has developed a distinctive style that blends traditional techniques with innovative methods. She is recognized as a pioneer of solar plate (photopolymer) etching, a process that allows for rich tonal variations and intricate details in her prints.
Her artworks often feature native Australian flora and fauna, rendered with a sense of wonder and reverence. Through her detailed explorations, Ayliffe captures the essence of her homeland, combining and layering images to create a unique visual expression.
Throughout her career, Ayliffe has been committed to sharing her knowledge and passion for art, working as a teacher and mentor. Her works are held in various private collections and have been exhibited widely, reflecting her significant contribution to the Australian art scene.