For many years I painted realism and recently a friend commissioned me to revisit those old skills. I must admit it was fun to see how my abstract work has maybe influenced my style, and shifting gears, if only briefly, was a nice change in pace. Happily the dog portrait is now gracing its new home in Toronto. I have no doubt that at some point I may paint more realism, but for the time-being, I still have much to explore in my abstract painting.
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Working alone in your studio can be a bit isolating. The answer is ArtFocus, a discussion group for professional artists. We gather to share news and information, to discuss contemporary art issues, and to laugh and enjoy the company of like-minded individuals. If you are an artist in the area, join us! If not, but you like the idea, why not start your own local discussion group?
A big thank you to Brandt Eisner and Swoon Fine Art for another wonderfully curated exhibit and a lovely opening reception. For those of you unable to attend the opening, the exhibit continues until August 31. I will actually be in the gallery on Sunday, August 10 from 12nn until 5pm and again on Tuesday, August 26 from 12nn until 6pm. Stop in to say hello! Elemental is my new series of paintings making its debut at Swoon Fine Art in Hammonds Plains, NS on Saturday, August 2nd, from 2pm to 5pm. Once again, I am very pleased to be sharing gallery space with new work by clay artist, Carol Smeraldo. Two other exhibits also opening that day feature artist Lou Schellenberg and African Abstract Textiles from the collection of Jed Irwin. Lots to see at Swoon and everyone is welcome! This new series of work originated with my interest in the natural environment and concerns regarding climate change. As I describe in my Artist's Statement: "Earth, water, air, fire, ether. This is our world - fragile, beautiful, powerful, and essential to life as we know it. Simplifying the nature of things can sometimes bring clarification and an understanding of what is truly important. Art is just another means of contemplating these things." I hope to see you at the opening or stop by the gallery any time during the month of August. Nestled in the very heart of Nova Scotia, beside the beautiful lakes and forests of Kejimkujik National Park, is the lovely Kempt Lake Gallery. Five pieces from my popular Art of Jazz series will be on exhibit at this wonderful gem of a gallery over the upcoming summer months. These paintings were inspired by well known jazz standards and were a joy to create.There's just something about warm summer days and the sounds of jazz ... Very happy to once again be participating in the Society of Canadian Artists Elected Members’ Group Show at the Etobicoke Art Gallery in the Etobicoke Civic Centre, Toronto, Ontario. For those of you in the Toronto area, all are welcome to attend the Opening Reception on Sunday, July 27th from 2pm to 4pm. The exhibit continues to August 27th, 2014. This is a great opportunity for art collectors and art lovers to see exceptional artwork by artists from across Canada. Looking forward to the launch of the new 2014-15 Halifax Art Map at the opening of Art Off the Map Group Exhibit on May 1st at the Art Sales and Rental Gallery, 1723 Hollis Street in Halifax. Always great to see all the new work by many outstanding artists living and working in Halifax. Everyone welcome! Well this has been a winter to remember, full of truly unexpected opportunity and amazing inspiration. (Not to mention lots and lots of snow!) However, after a month of travelling, I am happy to be back in my studio by the Bay working and planning several new projects. First is an upcoming show at Swoon Fine Art in August when my newest paintings will once again be paired with wonderful clay work by Carol Smeraldo. After initial discussions, we create our work separately and then Director, Brandt Eisner takes over to pull everything together as only he knows how. Can't wait to see! No rest for the weary ... or inspired artist, however, as I'm already gearing up for another, larger project which has me totally excited. No details yet, but stay tuned! The wonderful artist Maritza Miari is curator of the new group exhibit, "Routines to Rituals" and I am so happy to be participating. Exploring the inspiration found in traditions, routines and rituals, Maritza describes the work: "With this project I would like to evoke the symbolism of our daily life and to find a way to recover some of the attractive traditions or routines converted into rituals over time as a pleasurable experience, such as: having a good coffee, tea or wine, taking a bath, meditating ... every ritual is inspiration when it enriches our cultures or when it stimulates our senses. "Routines typically involve a momentary commitment with little thought, being given to the activity once it is completed ... repeated over time in a similar manner ... Rituals on the other hand are communicated through symbols and convey this is who we are." (Barbara H Fiese)" Other artists in the exhibit include Chris Brobeck, Lee Cripps, Anne Launcelott, Barbara Schmeisser and curator, Maritza Miari. Visit the exhibit March 5th to 27th at the Corridor Gallery, Visual Arts Nova Scotia, 1113 Marginal Road, Halifax, NS, open Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm. |
Anna Horsnell SCACanadian painter of contemporary abstract art Archives
May 2024
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