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I am a cinematographer; so setting my
easel is similar to where I would place the camera to bring the
audience into a scene. I use cinematic compositions to guide the
eye across, around, and into the scene. Every painting contains
a story.
I graduated from the Ontario College of Art, majoring in
animation before becoming a director cinematographer. For thirty
years I shot and directed many award winning films about history
culture and nature. I had the privilege of meeting
contemporaries of Grey Owl, Tom Thompson, and Lawren Harris. I
worked on one project with A. J. Casson of the Group Of Seven.
My studio in Bracebridge belonged to the family of Franz
Johnson, also of the Group of Seven. Looking at my work, people
can see those important influences. The American painter, Edward
Hopper also nourished my vision with his dynamic blend of story,
lighting and architecture.
I have to keep on the move for my next inspiration. It’s an
adventure to go off to some out of the way place searching for
something to catch my eye and ignite my spirit. Objects or
scenes that stir deep yearnings for which I cannot quite place
attract me.
Often, I understand a sketch or painting years after I have
done it. It’s like, "Aha. So that’s what it means!
" Locations range from Cape Spear, Newfoundland to Alert
Bay British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Arizona, the Great Lakes,
and North Shore of the St Lawrence River. It’s a
coast-to-coast show.
Most of my pieces are in private collections. I have had work
exhibited at the John B. Aird Gallery at Queen’s Park,
Toronto, the Art Gallery of Algoma and the Canadian
International Auto Show cross-country tour. |
