The idea of approaching landscape from the perspective of a
passenger ignited my imagination many years ago, as did my
plan to explore Canada’s highways and byways from coast to
coast to coast. The adventures have been magnificent, and I
hope you find the resulting collection of paintings equally as
inspiring. 

I am attracted to the idea of focusing on an unfocused moment,
an in-between time, a time of sitting still and moving fast, being
engaged but removed from the subject and being between places
when thoughts have time to wander. I am intrigued by the way
the perspective of a passenger references the viewer as the one
who is moving, creating a personal connection and inviting recall
of similar experiences from memory.

While sitting in the passenger seat, I make quick sketches and take
photographs using a slow shutter speed. It is important to me that
these materials are authentically sourced, even though the resulting
compositions often appear non site specific and even abstract. I use
these materials to develop compositions for semi abstract oil paintings.
The result is a permanent expression of a passing moment that
re-awakens memories from past journeys.

The hugely diverse Canadian geography and four distinct seasons
provide endless possibilities for exploring composition, perspective
and mood. Pallets can be soothing pastels or bold primaries, freezing
winter tones, or luscious summer greens. The vast creative possibilities
of this project keep me totally intrigued, always anticipating the discovery
of new visions unveiled by the next adventure. 

This year, 2020, I have completed a collection of black and white paintings,
and this time the perspective is through the front window rather than the side. Interestingly, having the vanishing point in, or much closer to the canvas
frame results in a completely different experience. The emphasis is on
graphic elements and a new kind of stylization.