MAin Space
All That Remains
Jessica Rice, Amber Thienpont, Ashley Way
February 12 - March 4, 2008
Artist talk: February 13th, 3p | Reception: February 29, 6-8p
Ashley Way, Eden Remembered, oil on canvas, 2007
All that remains is the environment that sustains us, and the breaking point that it has reached. The duality of this situation is both empowering and disabling in its inescapability. All that remains are remnants of the past, timeworn objects and places whose functions fade as quickly as the memories they hold. Abandonment by humanity, and subsequent adoption by nature, gives rise to a desire for the original value they once had. All that remains are the marks that form the individual. The uniqueness and complexity of our character are a result of the environments that once surrounded us. Essentially, our past creates our presence.
Ashley Way
I am not an environmentalist, but I would like to be. In reality, like many people, I am anxious and confused over the state of affairs of the natural world. My paintings are a way of affirming, in visual terms, the feelings that plague me.
I am interested in the way an image or situation may appear idyllic, when, under closer inspection, it becomes clear that all is not as it should be. My paintings are eye catching, even beautiful, however under further examination there is something about them which is out of place and unsettling. The figures in my paintings serve as a reminder to look closer and to be aware of the environment, and its subtle shifts and changes.
Ashley was born in Ottawa and later moved to Perth, Ontario. She is currently in her fourth year of the Queens BFA program and plans on undertaking an MFA in the future.
Jessica Rice, Spent Breath, oil and mixed media on canvas, 2007
I’m drawn to ravaged and worn items of the past; abandoned buildings, rusted-out cars, crumpled, old and forgotten objects that have been reclaimed by time. These artifacts function as remnants of past lives, their original meaning lost as they were consumed and left behind. I place these objects in neglected landscapes, seeking a sympathetic environment. These settings feature strong architectural elements and light sources which give rise to reccurring windows. The windows invite the viewer to enter and explore while the awkward and distorted proportions lend a surreal feeling to the work. By juxtaposing these objects and places, I endeavor to visually express my sense of loss for the waste our society has created as well as my nostalgia for the value they once had.
Jessica grew up just outside the village of Merrickville, located 45 minutes south-west of Ottawa. She is currently completing her fourth year of the BFA program at Queen’s University with a concentration in painting. Future plans include a career in arts administration and interior design.
Amber Thienpont, Josh, mixed media on paper, 2007
Art is Exploration. For me, manipulating and experimenting with a subject, for the purpose of gaining a greater understanding of the subject, makes art creation worthwhile. The human figure provides the perfect subject to explore this. Human psychology suggests that every individual has a unique past that makes them who they are. Through mark-making on the figure I suggest this unique presence. Utilizing a wide variety of media and techniques, and exploring various vantage points and perspectives, I am able to reveal something of my subjects’ individual character and personality.
Amber is currently in her fourth year of the BFA program at Queen’s. Her interest in psychology and human development informs her art practice and her work in the education field. Amber hopes to pursue a career in teaching after graduation.