The Foyer Gallery at the Squamish public library greets visitors with a creative display of photography and jewelry design as eclectic as the people and places the artists have encountered around the world.
Elizabeth Kerr's photographs verify her inducement to explore public faces and private spaces, together or apart. Kerr is inspired by people, especially children, as well as by geometrical shapes, nature and architecture. Doors, windows and arches beckon the observer.
"I am fascinated by the contrasts of; invitation versus aloofness, smooth versus jagged, old versus new, shadow versus light, fragility versus strength, innocence versus culpability; all of which lead the viewer to new perceptions, insights and thoughts," said Kerr.
Kerr is interested in how colour, shapes, shadows, nature, people and architecture are interrelated and complimentary. Her work has evolved from direct replication of people and objects to more subtle abstract associations.
"Through travel, I have been stimulated by other cultures; beauty versus poverty, plus the uniqueness of nature," she said. "The coexistence (convergence and divergence) of these subjects has led to a broader appreciation of the diversities in both life and the world."
Like most travellers, Kerr is open to new ideas of expression and communication and is exploring the idea of writing children's books with inspirational photographic illustrations. Having recently moved from Southern Ontario, Kerr relishes in the serenity and joy of the more relaxed lifestyle in and around Squamish.
For more information contact [email protected].
Beachcombing, sailing, yoga and travel are all links to the West Coast inspiration that Thea Robertson has infused into her line of hand made jewelry.
Robertson demonstrates her passion for symmetry and balance by creating unique pieces whose simplicity of design is often enhanced by textural engraved patterns, hammering and beveling.
When Vancouver based Robertson started making simple beaded jewelry about eight years ago she quickly realized that she was interested in learning as much as possible about the craft.
Since then her work has evolved drastically. You can view in the cases filled with a variety of rings, pendants, necklaces, earrings and even cufflinks where Thea has creatively used the juxtaposition of elements or negative space to create dramatic pieces.
In her line of ebony wood combined with sterling silver there is a strong element of contrast using colour and materials.
"Starting with simple bead and wire work as a basis, I moved on to more complex work with silver and wood. I have recently started working with gold and precious stones, and will be continuing to explore this medium in the years ahead," she said.
With formal training Robertson learned basic techniques and graduated at Vancouver Community College's Jewellery Art & Design Program in 2006. In March of 2009 she began apprenticing to become a goldsmith at Van Yperen Jewellers, where she is currently - eager to develop her skills to make exclusive unique pieces of wearable art.
Robertson is progressing in the direction of doing more custom work, which allows her to give significant time and focus to each piece.
For more information contact [email protected].
