Jane Gottlieb’s artistic journey is a testament to the transformative power of color and imagination. From her early days as a painter to her current mastery of digitally-enhanced photography, Gottlieb has consistently pushed the boundaries of artistic expression. Her work is a celebration of vibrancy, joy, and a world reimagined through saturated hues and dreamlike compositions.

Over the past several decades, Gottlieb has cultivated a unique visual language, blending traditional techniques with modern technology to create artworks that transcend reality. Her creations are not just images—they are windows into a world where beauty, color, and creativity reign supreme.
Early Beginnings: From Painter to Photographer
Gottlieb’s passion for art began at an early age. She initially expressed her creativity through painting, exploring the interplay of shapes, colors, and textures. However, her artistic curiosity soon led her to photography, where she discovered new possibilities for storytelling and visual expression.

In the 1980s, long before digital tools became commonplace, Gottlieb began hand-painting her Cibachrome photographic prints. This innovative technique allowed her to infuse each photograph with vivid, saturated colors, transforming ordinary scenes into extraordinary works of art. These early experiments were groundbreaking, offering a fresh perspective on photography and solidifying her reputation as a pioneer in the art world.
Breaking Boundaries: Creating an “Unrealistic Reality”
Gottlieb’s hand-painted photographs are a study in contrasts—rooted in reality yet bursting with surreal, dreamlike elements. She refers to her work as an “unrealistic reality,” where bold, saturated colors redefine the natural world.
Before the advent of Photoshop, Gottlieb meticulously painted each photographic print by hand, a labor-intensive process that required precision, creativity, and an unyielding commitment to her vision. Through this technique, she was able to transcend the limitations of traditional photography, creating images that felt both familiar and fantastical.
This approach resonated deeply with viewers, who were drawn to the exuberance and originality of her work. It wasn’t just photography; it was a celebration of color and imagination, challenging the way people perceived art and the world around them.
Embracing Digital Technology: The Photoshop Era
As technology advanced, so did Gottlieb’s artistic practice. Over the past 30 years, she has embraced digital tools like Photoshop to further enhance her creative process. By scanning her hand-painted prints and her extensive library of 35mm Kodachrome transparencies—captured during decades of global travel—Gottlieb has been able to expand her artistic horizons.

With Photoshop, she layers, combines, and enhances her images, creating compositions that are as intricate as they are vibrant. This digital evolution has allowed her to refine her vision while maintaining the essence of her earlier works. The result is a body of art that feels timeless yet modern, bridging the gap between analog and digital mediums.
“I love to paint, combine, and enhance my images with Photoshop, creating my own idyllic, beautiful, colorful world,” Gottlieb says. This statement encapsulates her approach to art—one that is deeply personal, joyful, and unapologetically bold.
A Global Presence: Exhibitions and Acclaim
Gottlieb’s art has captivated audiences around the world, earning her a place in some of the most prestigious galleries and museums. Her solo exhibitions have been featured in renowned venues such as:
- Butler Institute of American Art, Ohio
- Clarinda Gallery, Lisbon, Portugal
- MAD Gallery, Milan, Italy
- Demenga Gallery, Paris, France & Basel, Switzerland
- Carnegie Art Museum, Oxnard, California
- Laguna Art Museum, California
- Petersen Automotive Museum, Los Angeles, California
- Monterey Museum of Art, California
- Nancy Hoffman Gallery, New York City, New York
- L’Image Gallery, Rome, Italy
- Louis Stern Gallery, West Hollywood, California
- Wall Space Gallery, Santa Barbara, California
In addition to her solo shows, Gottlieb’s work has been included in countless group exhibitions and art fairs, where it continues to inspire and delight viewers. Her artistry has also been featured in magazines, books, and exhibition catalogues, solidifying her status as a leading figure in contemporary art.
Books and Publications
Gottlieb’s art has been immortalized in two books, Garden Tales and Car Tales, which showcase her ability to transform everyday subjects into extraordinary compositions. These publications offer a glimpse into her creative process and serve as a testament to her unwavering dedication to her craft.

In addition to her books, her work has appeared on the covers of magazines and in museum catalogues, further amplifying her influence and reach.
Themes and Inspirations
At the heart of Gottlieb’s work is a deep appreciation for beauty, color, and the transformative power of art. Her pieces often draw inspiration from her travels, capturing the essence of diverse landscapes, cultures, and architectural marvels.
Yet, her art goes beyond mere representation. Through her use of color and composition, she reimagines the world, creating scenes that feel both fantastical and deeply personal. This ability to blend reality with imagination is what sets her work apart, making each piece a unique and unforgettable experience.
Legacy and Impact
Jane Gottlieb’s contributions to the art world extend far beyond her individual works. Her innovative techniques and fearless approach to creativity have paved the way for other artists, inspiring them to push the boundaries of their own practices.
Her art invites viewers to see the world through a different lens—one where color is not just a visual element but a powerful tool for storytelling and emotional connection.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Color and Joy
Jane Gottlieb’s art is a celebration of life, beauty, and the boundless possibilities of creativity. From her early days as a painter to her current mastery of digital techniques, she has consistently reinvented herself, staying true to her vision while embracing new technologies.
Her work is a reminder that art has the power to transform, inspire, and bring joy. Through her vibrant compositions, Gottlieb offers us a glimpse into her colorful world—a place where imagination knows no bounds and where beauty is everywhere.
To explore more of Jane Gottlieb’s stunning creations, visit her official website at www.janegottlieb.com.