06/17/2026
Arts United had the privilege of stepping inside the studio of longtime San Pedro artist and arts advocate Jan Govaerts.
Jan’s artistic journey began after retiring as District Chief of the Torrance Superior Court. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art in 1991 and has spent the decades since building an extraordinary body of work that has been exhibited across the United States and internationally.
A ceramic sculptor inspired by nature, Jan is best known for her towering clay forms, seed pod sculptures, and organic shapes that echo trees, rock formations, and the intricate patterns found throughout the natural world. Her work reflects a deep connection to the earth and a fascination with the beauty hidden in everyday forms.
Beyond her own artistic achievements, Jan helped shape San Pedro’s creative community. In 1996, she and seven fellow artists founded the Loft Studios and Gallery—now Los Angeles Harbor Arts (LAHA) and played a key role in establishing the vibrant arts and culture scene that continues to thrive in downtown San Pedro today.
Thank you, Jan, for sharing your incredible artwork and lasting impact on the local arts community.
✨ Which of Jan’s nature-inspired sculptures speaks to you most?