Reception: Saturday, June 28, 1-4pm
Artist Statement
I believe the Nipissing Shores & foothills of the Laurentians to be one of the most beautiful areas on this planet. However, beauty can be found wherever nature is allowed to survive unspoiled by the hands of men. The difference is beautiful.
During the month of April, 2007, I was fortunate enough to travel though the southern United States (Arizona, Nevada & California), and found the changing landscape of the desert, the vegetation, the forests, the animals, the legends, history and the incredible geology of the whole region to be inspirational and at times almost spiritual.
The most awe-inspiring experience was the Grand Canyon, where I was able to view the canyon and the Colorado River from several vantage points before it began to snow. The appearance of the canyon radically changed in the space of about 15 minutes, presenting an unbelievable sight of snow laden trees and totally transformed vistas.
The legends and history of the area give one a glimpse into what life must have been like when settlers first arrived. I was most interested in the ancient native dwellings and was able to view one built into a huge red/orange rock surrounded by acres of sand and also "Montezuma Castle" carved into a cliff. Apparently it had been built on the shore of a lake at one time. This lake has since dried, leaving the dwelling high above. Both areas are protected as they are considered "at risk". Beautiful native pottery, silver & turquoise jewelery, woven baskets, etc. could be found in shops and on roadsides in different areas. I was and am very impressed by the artistic talent of the southwestern natives.
Using acrylic, collage and plaster to create 3-dimensional effects I have attempted to depict some of the "viewpoints" encountered on this journey from Mesa, Arizona to San Francisco, California.