A New Westminster artist’s depictions of storm-tossed seas and wind-torn landscapes are featured in an exhibition at a Vancouver gallery.
Fear, Hope and Longing III – Paintings of Vancouver Island Western Coast is on at the Visual Space Gallery in Vancouver from Nov. 24 to Dec. 7.
The exhibition features the work of local resident David A. Haughton. The exhibition’s 27 paintings examine the fear of threats to B.C.’s natural environment and the frailty of life, tempered by hope as reflected in delicately lit skies and warm light reflecting off turbulent seas.
“Lately I’m inspired by an intense feeling of personal vulnerability and evanescence,” Haughton says in a press release. “Sixty years old, perched on the seam between two tectonic plates, awaiting the heart attack, tsunami or massive oil tanker wreck on the ‘Graveyard of the Pacific Coast’ that will end my life and/or alter our massively privileged existence.”
Haughton says his work has helped him recognize that he’s not interested in painting rocks, waves and trees per se.
“Rather, I am driven to paint emotions – in particular the three emotions of fear, hope and longing,” he says.
“Dark, massive waves reflect dread of loss of control and fear of death. Warm fleeting colours of dawn echo the brief surge of morning hope. Sunset calm and sherbert colours echo the aching vibrations of longing – ‘may this good life continue,’” he says. “Yes, my paintings have recognizable trees, sky and ocean, but although that is what I am inspired by, it is not what I am striving for in my paintings.”
Haughton will give a presentation about his work on Sunday, Dec. 4 at 2 p.m. at the gallery.
The gallery, at 3352 Dunbar St., is open noon to 5 p.m. daily.
You can find out more about Haughton’s work at www.haughton-art.ca, or discover the Visual Space Gallery online at www.visualspace.ca.
