Artist Julia Soderholm is using her work to reflect on how we look to the earth for solace in times of uncertainty.
You can walk through her landscapes in a new show at the Gallery at Queen's Park, The Grief of Green, running Nov. 2 to 27.
"This recent body of work represents the felt landscape of the land that I live on," Soderholm said in a press release. "Each piece begins with observation but moves beyond it, as colour and shape are used to interpret the natural world with curiosity and tenderness."
Soderholm notes the works come from her practice of observing the details of place as she walks, watching how boulevard gardens, overgrown lots and sidewalk weeds all shift throughout the seasons.
"Despite the reality of environmental change on a massive scale, the specific miracles of growth and decay, death and fecundity, that happen daily in a neighbourhood garden offer consolation and, perhaps, hope," she said. "These works are grounded in the belief that paying attention is itself a meaningful act."
The gallery is in Centennial Lodge (near the bandshell). Entry to the gallery is free, but donations to ongoing operations are encouraged. It's open Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Soderholm will lead a nature art workshop on Sunday, Nov. 20 from noon to 2 p.m.
The Arts Council of New Westminster's gallery follows the most current provincial health orders, so patrons are asked to note that masks are optional, though physical distancing is still encouraged. Anyone who's feeling unwell is asked to stay home.
Follow Julie MacLellan on Twitter @juliemaclellan.
Email Julie, [email protected]
