My Story
“Jehane’s not just an agent, she’s an artist, a friend & a visionary as well’ - Margo Tantau
HOW TO PRONOUNCE JEHANE
I truly don’t mind how you say my name but, in case you are curious, I hope this helps.
Jehane is pronounced with a soft J as in the french Je suis or Je t’aime and a soft ah sound as in Hane (rhymes with Yarn). The e is silent.
The history books say Joan of Arc was called Jehane.
DESIGNER
With over thirty years experience - I gained a BA (Hons) in Textile Design at Winchester School of Art in 1994. With a flair for colour and an interest in literature, I was one of the first designers to use words, documents, and hand-writing in patterns. Winning a competition in 1992 saw my “Shakespeare” design published for paper products by Gallery Five - it went on to be an international best-seller inspiring the trend for using words in surface pattern. I have licensed hundreds of my own designs including to Sanderson Fabrics, Stewo, Borderleap and Apple Arcade. I have recently been commissioned for a two-illustrator book by a major author, to be published by Hachette in 2024.
“I am inspired by colour and conversations.”
CLOTH OF GOLD
I moved to Vienna as a graduate to work in-house as a textile designer for Affabre Design. I speak fluent German. Returning to Brighton in 1996 to work as a freelance artist, I established a prolific and full-time portfolio career. I licensed my designs to industry; supplied hand-made products to retail outlets nationally under the name of ‘Cloth of Gold’, and created one-off artwork to commission and for galleries. Retail clients include Liberty, English Heritage, & RSC. My design work has been featured on BBC TV and London Underground posters. My embroidered wall-hangings are in private collections all over the world. I have given many talks about my art including at the V&A.
“Jehane’s embroideries are antiques of the future”
ARTISTS’ AGENT
With a life-long interest in the wider creative process, I extended my experience to work as an Artists’ Agent in 2004. I have since represented many leading artists including Paul Thurlby, Louise Cunningham, and Cressida Bell. In 2018 I founded a new Illustration Agency Jehane Ltd. Specialising in the top-end of the market with a focus on publishing and surface pattern, clients include Anthropologie, Walker Books, Museums & Galleries, Scholastic, Lagom Design, Roger la Borde & many more. I am renowned for my exceptional eye, commitment to quality, and talent for developing new creative concepts.
“Jehane is inspired by cultivating relationships and creating beautiful art - this mentality makes her such a well respected and sought-after agent.”
ARTS EDUCATOR
I offer support for emerging and established artists including one-to-one portfolio reviews and coaching on art licensing. My approach is positive and purposeful with a strong aesthetic analysis. Many of the artists I have worked with have gone on to sign agents, achieve higher consistency in their work, and gain the confidence to elevate their work to the next level. Sign up to receive details of events and future opportunities for artists - my creative challenges have inspired artists all over the world.
“The way Jehane works with artists and her own creativity is so inspirational.”
CURATOR
I first opened my home in 2002 to exhibit my work as part of the Brighton Festival. I invited my fellow artists to show alongside. ‘Jehane’s Artist Open House’ has featured in The Independent, BBC Homes & Antiques, Evening Standard, and The Spectator. I have exhibited the work of over one hundred artists including Jane Muir, Jenifer Wall, Marion McConaghie, Melanie Porter, Ken Eardley, Graham Carter, Debbie George, Becky Blair, Iris de la Torre, Philippa Stanton, and Justine Allison.
“Jehane’s Open House is a treasure trove of contemporary art”