A charming art book exploring universal themes of family through 300 watercolour paintings of objects "preserved" in Mason jars.

The fragmented history of one family’s hope, challenge, failure, and persistence is beautifully depicted in this book of watercolour images by artist Joanne Thomson. Combining still-life painting with visual storytelling, Thomson presents everyday artifacts—from flowers to fruits, tools to toys, and photographs to farm equipment—and places them in, on, beside, or behind a glass jar.

Carefully gathered from the artist’s family members and the natural environments where they lived, the simple objects in this collection represent the depth and complexity of daily life. Arranged thematically, the pieces explore traditional gender roles, the issue of food security in times of scarcity, renewal and hope presented by the bounty of nature, treasures passed down through generations, and the looming presence of family secrets. Beautiful to look at and infinitely fascinating to ponder over, 300 Mason Jars is a stunning addition to any art lover’s library.

Joanne Thomson is a full-time visual artist, dividing her time between painting, illustration, teaching watercolour painting, and facilitating community art projects, including murals in Victoria and Saanich and the Beatty Biodiversity Museum Blue Whale Project. Currently, Thomson is the illustrator for Life and Death Matters, an independent publishing company that creates resources to support health care workers and individuals providing care for the dying and bereaved.

Joanne Thomson's profile page