I live in the community of Shoe Cove, north of St John’s on the east coast of Newfoundland looking out over the Atlantic Ocean.
Through vibrant colour and myriad forms of life, I attempt to present a unique view of Newfoundland and Labrador, its shoreline, rivers, the rocky cliffs. The surface teems with details from the natural environment, but captures the duality of its fragility and durability under the harsh conditions on this edge of Canada. Through continuous observations of the surrounding environment, I build up a storehouse of experiences, memories that are supported by an expanding collection of reference photographs and scientific facts that, through contemplation and emotional response, provide the stimulus for my work. When the world’s natural environment is threatened on so many fronts, it is time to look at what this province still has, to delight in its unspoilt variety and to preserve in my work some of the beauty and diversity that still remains.
These works are all based on sketches I did on location in various parts of the Newfoundland. They are original, one-of-a-kind works painted on silk twill with Remazol dyes.