Landscape as Connection: Water
Paintings by Ann Robson
January 5 - 28, 2022
Artist Statement
In my art-making, I work from what I see. But this is a starting point only. For now, I have a strong interest in representing diverse aspects of the psychological experience of being in the natural environment. My paintings reflect my interest in the theme of connections and my view of landscape as an opportunity for diverse connections between the individual and the environment. These include connections between the landscape and the artist, between the artwork and the viewer, and between humans across different times and places. Paintings for this exhibition are images of water, that offers an abundance of both unique and common human experiences and connections.
I typically use one of my photographs as a referent. My process also includes planning and research prior to painting – recording my own thoughts, completing relevant collateral research about the landscape, and establishing values, composition, and a colour scheme. I typically paint in series, with a theme or a concept that can be fully explored and also unites the works in the series. I am inspired by past landscape artists such as the Group of Seven, Emily Carr and Georgia O’Keefe. I am also inspired by modern and contemporary landscape painters who continue to find meaning and value in this genre.
Future goals include expanding my painting to include a focus on connections between artwork and viewer. I also hope to integrate my interest in human connections to landscape and broader issues related to preservation of natural environments. On reflection, these goals appear to represent an interest in integrating some aspects of my interest in human psychology with my current creative activity. ~ Ann Robson
Bio
I am an emerging artist living in Vancouver and working in drawing and painting media. After completing an undergraduate degree in studio art, I maintained an art practice before and after moving to Canada in 1976. Due to an interest in artistic development and creativity, I began further study in psychology.
Following a move to British Columbia, the compelling beauty of this place provided an abundance of inspiration for art-making and a renewal of my interest in the interface between art and psychology. Since stepping back from my work as a psychologist, I have returned to my art practice in earnest and completed certificates in Drawing and Painting at Emily Carr University of Art + Design.
In my art-making, I work from what I see. But this is a starting point only. For now, I have a strong interest in representing diverse aspects of the psychological experience of being in the natural environment. My paintings reflect my interest in the theme of connections and my view of landscape as an opportunity for diverse connections between the individual and the environment. These include connections between the landscape and the artist, between the artwork and the viewer, and between humans across different times and places. Paintings for this exhibition are images of water, that offers an abundance of both unique and common human experiences and connections.
I typically use one of my photographs as a referent. My process also includes planning and research prior to painting – recording my own thoughts, completing relevant collateral research about the landscape, and establishing values, composition, and a colour scheme. I typically paint in series, with a theme or a concept that can be fully explored and also unites the works in the series. I am inspired by past landscape artists such as the Group of Seven, Emily Carr and Georgia O’Keefe. I am also inspired by modern and contemporary landscape painters who continue to find meaning and value in this genre.
Future goals include expanding my painting to include a focus on connections between artwork and viewer. I also hope to integrate my interest in human connections to landscape and broader issues related to preservation of natural environments. On reflection, these goals appear to represent an interest in integrating some aspects of my interest in human psychology with my current creative activity. ~ Ann Robson
Bio
I am an emerging artist living in Vancouver and working in drawing and painting media. After completing an undergraduate degree in studio art, I maintained an art practice before and after moving to Canada in 1976. Due to an interest in artistic development and creativity, I began further study in psychology.
Following a move to British Columbia, the compelling beauty of this place provided an abundance of inspiration for art-making and a renewal of my interest in the interface between art and psychology. Since stepping back from my work as a psychologist, I have returned to my art practice in earnest and completed certificates in Drawing and Painting at Emily Carr University of Art + Design.
Click on image to see full piece. All images © Ann Robson
