Join us Saturday, September 12, 2020, for an opening not to be missed! We are pleased to present a group show with ceramic sculptor Elaine Brewer-White and oil painter Mary Ann Laing! Meet the artists between 1 and 4 pm!
We thank you for wearing your mask while visiting our gallery!
ARTIST STATEMENT
In these strange times of worry and isolation, I began reflecting on my country and which people have helped shape my Canadian life.
This show is a small collection of past and current Canadians who have helped define Canada as a remarkable country. Scientists, naturalists, politicians, writers, actors, astronauts, painters, and musicians have contributed to making our country a better place.
Emily Carr taught me to look inside and beyond when creating. Margaret Atwood helped me to love story-telling, while David Suzuki showed me to champion the environment. Chris Hadfield enabled me to look up to the sky in wonder, KD Lang showed me the awesomeness of the human voice, and Oscar Peterson gave me a reason to stick with my piano lessons. Ryan Reynolds showed me how humour and social activism go together. Gord Downie thrilled me with his songwriting and taught me about grace and courage. A Mountie, a beaver and some Canada geese somehow always make me proud! Pierre and Justin Trudeau demonstrate how hard it is to steer this country through troubled waters. Finally, Dr. Bonnie Henry taught me empathy, humility and calm when facing great unknowns, and Michael Buble, a singer of jazz and a joyful soul, reminds me that it is still a wonderful world.
There are so many more remarkable Canadians I would like to portray. I plan to expand on this collection of Icons as well as lesser-known Canadians.
Oh, Canada – we stand on guard for thee – and each other!
Mary Ann Laing is a Victoria-based artist who has been painting for over 30 years. Inspired by the landscapes around Vancouver Island, her colourful and playful renditions of beloved places bring joy to the viewer.
ARTIST STATEMENT
This collection of works was inspired by memories of places I visited with my husband and children over the past decades. I hope to draw people into the world of peace and joy I recall as we explored these various Vancouver Island spots. My works are not to copy the physical, but to communicate the spirit of those glorious moments that remain in my heart for the rest of time.
Victoria
