November 3 – 21, 2021
Riverdale Blooms exhibition is a consequence of the pandemic interrupting international travels and forcing one to turn to immediate surroundings for inspiration. Fitness obliging and intellectual stimulation beckoning, daily walks through my Riverdale neighbourhood from April 2020 onwards provided the needed inspiration. Thousands of photos were taken of awakening buds and glorious blossoms and flowers in maturing gardens, following the amazing display of colours and shapes through the seasons.
Selected photos were subjected to Photoshop to intensify/modify colours with the intent to illustrate the unusual or complex nature of the flora. Printed photos were transferred to wooden boards and complemented with acrylic paint. There are also some multi-image transfers as well as collages. Added grid patterns likely reflect the effects of the imposed confinement.
Michelle Letarte
Michelle Letarte is a Toronto-based artist who has been painting for 30 years. Artistic expression was a way to balance her working life as a research scientist. She is currently Professor Emerita at the University of Toronto and still organizes immunology courses in middle- to low-income countries. Michelle attended the Ontario College of Art & Design on a part-time basis for several years and subsequently trained through workshops with various artists. Michelle’s extensive travels provide endless subject matters and inspiration; the more exotic the better. Neolithic sites, ancient caves and old walls stimulate her interest and lead to highly textured abstract acrylic paintings. Michelle has been a member of the Propeller Art Gallery for 12 years and is currently Chair of the Board.
