In Search of Self
My original intention with this exhibit was to showcase the striking landscape of the Peace River region. My challenge was to find the best way to put to canvas and paper, the majestic beauty of this place I call home.
But my artistic journey is about more than just developing the mechanical skills required as an artist. As I prepared for this exhibit, I discovered inner strengths I didn't know existed. I faced unflinchingly my own weaknessess, and have turned them into challenges to be overcome. I ventured into new areas of painting and drawing, outside my comfort zone. Through this process I developed a greater confidence in myself as an artist.
The Peace River
The paintings, drawings and photos that appear show some of the facets of the British Columbia Peace River region. The Peace River is the dominant feature in the landscape, cutting through the terrain like a spoon through coffee ice cream. Located on the east side of the Rocky Mountains, the foothills and farmland have much in common with Alberta.
Through the Seasons
The Peace region can be best appreciated through the passage of its seasons. As the days flow by, the area displays characteristics that are unique to each time of year.
During winter, a smooth blanket of white covers the land, interrupted by stands of graceful aspen trees.
Spring's arrival heralds longer days as the sun warms the land. A variety of greens and yellows burst from awakening plants. Spring is an ephemeral season, over within a matter of weeks.
The longer hours of sunlight during summer provide optimal growing conditions for all plants, wild and domesticated. Meanwhile the sky becomes ripe with storm-filled cumulus clouds.
The grandeur of the Peace is at its greatest in autumn. The aspen change from green to brilliant yellows. There are patches of orange and red shrubs splashed across the golden sea.
An Ever-Present Companion
The wind can drive needles of ice into tender skin, push billowing dust clouds across fields, and knock the leaves senseless until they give up their hold. The Peace is never really peaceful when the wind is blowing.
People of the Peace
Perhaps because of the remote northern location or the pioneering spirit from the original settlers, there is a strong "can-do" attitude among the people here.
New Voyages
Preparing to display my artwork for this exhibition has helped me explore the landscapes of the Peace River, and myself. With each work I have a greater view of my emerging styles. I have a better understanding of why I create and what I want to express every time I paint or draw.
Challenge for the Peace River
The beauty of the Peace is threatened by a proposal to dam the river, which would flood the valley's heritage, wildlife, forests, farmland and tributaries. With this exhibit, I hope you will appreciate what is at stake and will be moved to take action.
The Site C dam is not currently part of BC's energy production plans for the province, but since the late 1960s the megaproject has loomed over the valley and its residents.
Take part in Paddle for the Peace on July 21, 2007, a celebration and awareness-raising canoe trip down the Peace . Contact a BC MLA or the Premier. Make sure your voice is heard for the Peace's sake. Contact: PVEA (at) shaw.ca for more information.
If you are interested in more information about my artwork and photography, you can contact me at: cwong (at) pris.ca
(Remove the (at) in the email addresses and replace with an ampresand.)
