Wallace Galleries’ latest exhibition, “Winter Light & Inner Light,” running till February 12, explores the intersection of natural winter light and artistic introspection. The show features works by established artists, including Steve Mennie, Robert Marchessault, David T. Alexander, Linda Nardelli, Bruce Head, William Duma, Wilf Perreault, Jack Reid, David Newkirk, Kenneth Lochhead, Simon Andrew, Robin Smith Peck and Hilda Oomen.
Two Ways of Seeing Light
The exhibition’s concept stems from two distinct approaches to light in art. The first examines how winter’s low-hanging sun creates dramatic natural lighting effects, while the second explores light as a metaphor for imagination and inner consciousness.
Artists’ Techniques and Mediums
The technical range of the exhibition is noteworthy, featuring works in watercolour, oil on canvas, acrylic, ink, pastel and gouache. Each medium brings its own characteristics to the interpretation of light, from the transparency of watercolours to the textural qualities of oils and the versatility of mixed media works.
Standout Works
Robert Marchessault’s new work, “Little Willow Pond,” is a prime example of the exhibition’s exploration of inner light. Rather than focusing on external winter scenes, Marchessault uses the imagery of still water to create a contemplative piece about self-reflection and internal awareness. The work effectively bridges the gap between physical observation and psychological experience.
The exhibition gains historical roots through pieces like Bruce Head’s 2007 “Winter Garden” from the gallery’s collection. This inclusion demonstrates the enduring appeal of light as a subject in Canadian art, while contemporary works show how artists continue to find new ways to interpret this theme.
Artists William Duma, Jack Reid, Jim Stokes and Simon Andrew contribute works that capture the physical qualities of winter light, focusing on how seasonal changes in natural illumination affect landscape perception.
Linda Nardelli and Robin Smith Peck take more abstract approaches, using light as a metaphor for consciousness. Their works, along with pieces by Kenneth Lochhead and Ronald Bloore, demonstrate how abstract techniques can convey psychological and emotional aspects of light and perception.
A Refreshing Take on the Familiar
“Winter Light & Inner Light” brings fresh energy to Calgary’s art scene by looking at light in two ways: as the glow we see and as a symbol of how we understand our world. The artists take familiar winter scenes and make them new through different techniques – from delicate watercolours to textured oils to innovative mixed media. What makes this show work is how it balances artistic skill with ideas that make you think while remaining accessible to both art experts and casual viewers.
Colette Hubner, the gallery’s director, has successfully brought together works examining the observable characteristics of winter light and its more abstract, psychological aspects. This combination creates an exhibition that speaks to viewers’ technical and conceptual interests.
The exhibition will particularly appeal to landscape art enthusiasts, those interested in contemporary Canadian art and anyone who appreciates the interplay between realism and abstraction. With its diverse collection spanning various mediums and styles, the show offers something for every art lover – from those who prefer traditional representations to those drawn to more experimental approaches.
Visitor Information
Located just steps from the EB 3 Street SW Station, Wallace Galleries welcomes visitors to experience “Winter Light & Inner Light” free of charge until February 12th. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore this thoughtfully curated exhibition that celebrates both the physical and metaphysical aspects of light in art.
