Inspired by art crawls, we thought it'd be fun to take a virtual look inside the homes of some of our team members to see what art they have surrounding them. We're hoping to spark some thoughts about how art is different to every person, as well as reflect upon what we have chosen to hang on our walls or display on a shelf -- and why. Art has the amazing capacity to be whatever a person decides it is, whether it is a painting by a famous artist or a drawing by your child or a found photograph. We hope you enjoy these glimpses into the art that we treasure and take comfort in!
This art tour is brought to you by Eryne Donahue, our Artist-in-Residence and Workshop Coordinator:
When I moved into my new condo in downtown New Westminster last summer, it didn't really feel like it was my place until the art went up. Not only are there memories and stories attached to this work, but it really gives the space a kind of thoughtfulness. I curate my space to pair artworks with plants, objects of use, books and other items to integrate them into the thoughts or concepts that I like to surround myself with. I feel like this helps me focus when I work from home.
I have a collection of art that includes work that has been traded and gifted, purchased and created by myself. It includes works by artists Dan Black, Scott Malin, Derek Dunlop, Dorie Clairmont, Bruno Chouinard and Anne Lapierre, Kristina Lee Podesva, Erin Parker, Nicole Brabant, Kay Heekyung Im, and others: too many works to show here. I try not to hang too much of my own work, as I feel more inspired in a space that has a dynamic collection of the creativity of others. In fact, this is really the first place I have lived where I decided to hang a few of my own art pieces. The rest of it stays boxed in the closet or under my bed waiting for sale or exhibition.
You'll notice that most artworks are somewhat related in theme or media. I mostly collect photography and printmedia (lithographs, etching, screen and block prints) as these are media I have studied throughout my life and are the type of work I gravitate toward. My husband, an environmental scientist, and myself are inspired by the outdoors and enjoy hiking, canoeing, gardening, birding and mushroom foraging. It is not surprising that many of the works I have collected in some way reflect our interests.
When I hang artwork, I usually have it framed. While this is a bit decadent, it gives the work real weight and the care I feel it deserves. I often custom frame works on paper to fit the dimensions and peculiarities of the work.
(Note: slides best viewed in web mode)