In my oil paintings, I almost exclusively depict landscapes surrounding Hamilton, Ontario. I think it’s important to document our natural world because it showcases how beautiful our region is and it allows me to show my appreciation for the land I live on. When I paint a location that may be familiar to all of us, I also want to express the way I felt when I was there.
I recently saw a clip of Neil Degrasse Tyson discussing Van Gogh’s Starry Night and he said “Art at its best captures the emotion of reality rather than the reality.” I loved that a scientist shared the same perspective as myself, but I also think that it may be a universal feeling about art.
When people are immersed in an awe-inspiring landscape, we all feel something. That’s probably why throughout history people have been drawn to scenic views. It’s the artist’s job to capture the feelings that come with those views. If I’m lucky, someone out there has experienced a similar feeling and can appreciate the artwork.
Mostly known as a steel town to outsiders, Hamilton’s often overlooked beautiful waterfronts and forested regions include the Bruce Trail, Rail Trail, Dundas Conservation Area, the escarpment lookout and Bayfront Park. Hamilton is a beautiful city worthy of being documented artistically.
There’s also a language developed with landscape paintings established by the painters who came before us. Trees can symbolize growth and revival. Water can symbolize rebirth, but it can also be used to address themes of depth and sadness. Knowing this language can open up an understanding of not only the landscapes in our backyard but the mind and heart of the artist representing them.
Art has the power to freeze time and share an experience. The person who selects a specific work of art to display in their home or office is choosing to say something about themselves. They are telling the world what they feel and value. What’s more beautiful than that?
Land Acknowledgement
I would be remiss to not acknowledge the history of this land we call home. I think the City of Hamilton does a great job communicating their land acknowledgement, I’d like to quote the following:
Hamilton is situated upon the traditional territories of the Erie, Neutral, Huron-Wendat, Haudenosaunee and Mississaugas. This land is covered by the Dish With One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, which was an agreement between the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabek to share and care for the resources around the Great Lakes.
Indigenous peoples have a long history of caring for this land. There’s a lot that can be learned from that history. As a very small part of reconciliation, I’m honoured to share in the respect and beauty this land offers us.
