artist statement
A love of travel has led me to Europe, the Caribbean, the United States, South America, Africa, India and many parts of Canada. These adventures are reflected in my paintings. My art is inspired by my fascination with people and an interest in the human figure. I also find inspiration in the outdoors, and spend as much time painting “en plein air” as possible. The enjoyment of painting outdoors is compounded by the camaraderie shared with fellow artists as we attempt to capture the immenseness of the Rocky Mountains or the quiet beauty of the prairies. The bold use of colour and texture play key roles in my work as does the use of interesting shapes and negative space. Primary colours and the use of complimentary colours wake up the senses and thusly are to be found in most of my paintings.
My paintings record my journey through life, and also allow me to explore a particular idea or theme and follow it through to the end. The direction of my painting seems to change constantly, because new situations, ideas and experimentation are my impetus. Most recently I have been experimenting with abstracting both figure and still life, and found this to be an exciting new direction for my art. Experimentation is an artistic process deeply valued by myself, since it is an exciting, adventurous and ever expanding circle which takes me to places I have never experienced.
Painting excites my mind and soothes my soul. It energizes me and makes me look at the world from a different perspective. It causes me to pause and admire the shadows and light; it allows me to see beauty where others may see none.
artist information
I was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba and spent 20 years there before moving to Alberta. My love of the wide open spaces is reflected in many of my landscape paintings. As a small child, I was able to spend many summers on my Grandfather’s farm in Saskatchewan, as well as considerable time at the lovely lakes in Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario. Upon moving to Alberta, the mountains captivated me, and I spent many days skiing and hiking in Banff, Jasper, and Yoho National Parks.
I was educated at the University of Calgary, where I obtained a degree in education. My love of dance led me to a minor in dance and my curiosity with all things connected to history and people led me to pursue a major in Social Studies. I was able to teach dance for many years, but when a back injury side lined me, my creative bent needed an outlet, and painting replaced my passion for dance.
My art has always been inspired by my fascination of people and an interest in the human figure. I have attended art classes at Mount Royal College, the University of Calgary, and Red Deer College. My many artist friends and colleagues have not only mentored me, but continually encourage me to grow artistically and at times, throw caution to the wind.
artistic affiliations
- Federation of Canadian Artists
- The New 7 Painters Society of Canada
- Oil Painters of America
contacting the artist
Lorraine Whellams
Calgary, Alberta
More art for viewing at:
Represented by:
Webster Galleries Calgary, Alberta
Leighton Centre Alberta
Collector's Covey Dallas, Texas