March 12 - 28, 2009
Artist Reception: March 12, 6 - 8 pm
Northern Raven presents new paintings by artist Judith Currelly that draw attention to the intelligent and often humorous character of the raven, a strong presence in the far North. As she writes, "The raven is a funny trickster and impossible to ignore." Currelly captures the essence of this intriguing iconic bird in eight large semi-abstract canvasses. The works speak to the raven's communication skills and valued place as an indicator of nearby caribou.
Through almost four decades of painting, Currelly's spectacular images have demonstrated her reverence and passion for the land and people of the North. The raven, bear and caribou have always formed part of her work. In Living Systems (2005), she explored the interrelated conditions, patterns and structures that occur between land, sky, water and life forms. In Journeys (2007), she introduces the human figure and handwritten script to her landscape paintings, thereby gaining a new sense of narrative.
Judith Currelly was born in Toronto, Ontario and studied at the Ontario College of Art and Design as well as the University of Victoria, BC. She has an impressive exhibition record and her work is included in numerous private, corporate and public collections including the Canada Council Art Bank and the Governor General's Crown Collection. A former bush pilot, the artist divides her time between her home in Atlin and her studio in the Gulf Islands. Diane Farris Gallery has represented Judith Currelly since 1989.
Diane Farris Gallery, 1590 West 7th Avenue, Vancouver
Contact: Stacey White art@dianefarrisgallery.com
This exhibition can be viewed on-line at: http://www.dianefarrisgallery.com/artist/currelly/ex09/press_release.htm
Tel: (604) 737-2629 Fax: (604) 737-2675