Pen, Pencil & Brush: A Life in Lines and Landscapes

ArtHouse Jersey is proud to present the return of local artist John Syvret to Greve de Lecq Barracks for a special solo exhibition celebrating his artistic journey and deep love for Jersey’s natural heritage.

‘Pen, Pencil & Brush: A Life in Lines and Landscapes’ will showcase a curated collection spanning over 70 years of work, capturing the beauty of Jersey’s landscapes, wildlife, and coastline with striking delicacy and devotion.

John Syvret, one of Jersey’s most recognisable illustrators, is a Jersey-born artist, lifelong resident of Greve de Lecq, and fluent Jèrriais speaker. Known for his rich
illustrative detail and unmistakable personal style, this new exhibition offers an intimate view of the Island as seen through his eyes — both artistic and deeply rooted in local life.

This is Mr Syvret’s second solo exhibition and features a broad mix of drawings, watercolours, and illustrative pieces, including scenes from his beloved Greve de Lecq, detailed studies of wildlife, and evocative depictions of Jersey’s unique natural environment. Accompanying the artwork will be historic photographs and artefacts from John’s personal collection, offering added context to the life and place that has inspired so much of his work.

A former Hautlieu School pupil, Mr Syvret was drawn to art from a young age and was often found in the school’s art rooms or illustrating biology and geography diagrams with uncommon flair. He went on to become a graphic design artist for the Jersey Evening Post, contributing to the island’s visual culture through signage, editorial design, and illustration.

He also served as chairman of the Greve de Lecq Boat Owners Association for nearly four decades and remains a daily fixture around the bay. His connection to place is evident in every brushstroke, and this exhibition is as much a celebration of island life as it is of artistic practice.

As a personal tribute, John Syvret would like to include a Jersey Dementia Collection Pot, supporting a cause that is very close to the artist’s heart. Visitors are invited to contribute during their visit if possible as well as donations for ArtHouse Jersey.

John Syvret said: “I was born in Jersey and have lived in St Ouen all my life. Like so many of my generation I am descended from a long line of farmers with deep roots in the country parish. Sketching and painting have played a great part throughout my life, as a child I was often to be found in the countryside with pencil and sketch pad. These pictures ‘Glimpses of Jersey’ are a wide collection of my work throughout the last 70 odd years”.