Thank you to Fort Chipewyan! I am back from a month in this tiny community on Lake Athabasca in northern Alberta and I must say have been moved and inspired by my experience. First some shots of this beautiful community...
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| Lake Athabasca |
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| Transportation |
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| Tradition |
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| Modern application |
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| The site of the first fort |
The location, environment and local issues all played a part in inspiring my work. My studio was located in the town hall and afforded both time and space to be exploratory and creative. In total, I produced 35 showable works of which 29 will be featured in a group show Sep 6-30 in Fort MacMurray, AB.
Although I have always produced "pretty" work, this residency helped me realize that it is the stories that drive my work - not the look of the finished piece or even the process of creation. I am moved to tell stories through my art and it is this expression that is the most fulfilling for me. Once the story is told and the piece is finished - I am happy if the appreciator can find the story but equally happy if they just like the work.
I was able to share my time during this residency with a fellow artist, Alisdair Macrae. Alisdair was also an inspiration and his work and medium has excited me to new directions. Since I am used to working alone in my studio, I was quite amazed at how much I came to rely on his critiques and feedback and enjoyed his quirky character - my growth as an artist can be partly attributed to him as well.
A heartfelt thank you to all who made this possible - the folks who set up the residency, the people of the community and my husband who helped me free my time to do it.
