21 September, 2024 3 min read
We are thrilled to introduce the latest works from Canadian artist Paul Jorgensen, whose vibrant and imaginative paintings have captivated collectors for years. His new work, featuring standout pieces like Spring Promises and Bygone Summers, continues to embody his playful, surrealist style, blending whimsical architecture with lush natural landscapes. If you're new to Jorgensen's work or a long-time admirer, this new collection is sure to inspire awe and delight.
Paul Jorgensen was born in Tofino, British Columbia, in 1947 and raised in Nanaimo. His journey as an artist has been shaped by many life experiences, from studying at the Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design in the early 1970s to traveling across Europe, where he was deeply influenced by the picturesque Tuscan landscapes. This European inspiration is often reflected in his use of colour and perspective. However, his artistic path was anything but traditional—Jorgensen spent three decades working in various jobs, including running a tropical plant store and owning a restaurant, before fully committing to painting.
Mentored by fellow mid-Island artists Grant Leier and Nixie Barton, Jorgensen's artistic journey took a turning point when his first three paintings, displayed at the West End Gallery in Victoria, sold within a week. Since 2001, Jorgensen has been painting full-time, describing himself as an "overnight success that took 55 years." His work has since been beloved for its vibrant fantasy elements, confident colour palette, and joyful abstraction, all while evoking a sense of wonder and nostalgia.
One of the highlights of Jorgensen's new collection is the 36" x 36" acrylic on canvas piece titled Spring Promises. This painting perfectly exemplifies Jorgensen’s unique style. Brightly coloured towers and quaint cottages rise amidst soft, rounded trees in an idyllic countryside setting. The colour palette of rich reds, pinks, greens, and blues brings a dreamlike quality to the composition. His layered brushstrokes and textured application of paint create depth and movement, drawing the viewer into the scene.
What stands out in Spring Promises is Jorgensen's ability to blend flat planes of bold color with textured, organic elements like trees and bushes, creating an expert balance between flatness and depth. His surrealist approach to perspective allows the architecture to bend and twist, further emphasizing the whimsy of the landscape. This artwork is a brilliant reminder of Jorgensen’s dedication to bringing joy and imagination to the canvas.
Another key piece from this collection is Bygone Summers, a 36" x 36" acrylic on canvas that evokes the warmth and nostalgia of summer days. A charming pink cottage sits at the heart of the painting, surrounded by a dreamlike landscape of tall trees, vivid flowers, and a meandering path. The combination of purples, greens, and yellows creates an enchanting contrast, while the brushwork adds a sense of texture and life to every element.
Jorgensen’s signature playful use of colour and abstraction is on full display here. The organic shapes flow freely across the canvas, while the surreal elements—like the trees and path—invite viewers to imagine a narrative, perhaps a memory of summers past. Through this piece, Jorgensen captures both the vibrancy and the peacefulness of summer, inviting us to immerse ourselves in the warmth and light of the season.
Paul Jorgensen’s work appeals to a broad range of art lovers, from those who appreciate the technical mastery of his brushwork to those who are drawn to his ability to create scenes filled with imagination and joy. His paintings aren’t simply landscapes; they’re a celebration of life, colour, and fantasy.
Collectors particularly admire the way Jorgensen’s pieces balance abstraction with surrealism, offering both playful, fantastical elements and a sense of calm that makes his works perfect for any setting. His confident use of color and unique approach to perspective make his paintings stand out in a sea of contemporary art. Each piece tells its own story, encouraging viewers to find their own connection to the artwork.
If you're interested in learning more about Paul Jorgensen or would like to inquire about purchasing one of his new works, including Spring Promises and Bygone Summers, visit the West End Gallery. His artwork has been a staple at the gallery for over two decades, and we are excited to showcase this latest collection. Whether you're an experienced collector or someone looking for a unique, joyful piece of art, Paul Jorgensen's new works are sure to brighten your space and inspire your imagination.
To explore more about Paul Jorgensen’s story, the West End Gallery’s collections, or to inquire about upcoming exhibitions, feel free to contact us directly or visit our FAQ page for more information.
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