The title of our current show at the gallery, “Under the Influence”, is likely to elicit some sort of curiosity and interest. The phrase may carry some connotations, but in the case of this show, “influence” could ultimately be replaced by “inspiration”. When faced with a blank canvas, where does one start? The artists in this show all share a similar starting point: the permission to overtly draw inspiration another artist.
In seeking inspiration from the particular style, subject matter, and/or technique of another artist, the artists in this show have each created unique works of art that combine personal style with an undercurrent of homage. In order to fully appreciate all the works in this show, it's worthwhile to take a look at the influences that inspired the works.
Kim Floyd's three paintings in this show, "Popcorn", "Moon Mist", and "Creamsicles" are bright with vivid, saturated candy-like colors that depicting treats that look ready to eat.
 |
"Popcorn" by Kim Floyd, Acrylic on board 6"x 8" |
 |
| "Moon Mist" by Kim Floyd |
 |
| "Creamsicles" by Kim Floyd, Acrylic on board 10" x 12" |
The artist Kim looked to for inspiration was Wayne Thiebaud, an American painter who is best known for his colorful depictions of tasty confections and everyday objects. Thiebaud is often mistakenly associated with the Pop Art Movement, but many of his works actually predate the movement, and do not focus of mass culture iconography.
 |
| "Confections" Wayne Thiebaud, 1962 |
 |
| "Four Cupcakes" Wayne Thiebaud, 1971 |
Kim's work incorporates the bold use of color and well-defined, almost graphic shadows typical of Thiebaud's work. While Thibaud's subject matter often include diner-style comfort food like homemade pies, cakes, and ice-cream sundaes, Kim's paintings feature more modern and ready-made treats typical of a trip to the local convenience store or supermarket. A fun fact, Moon Mist ice cream (the subject of one of Kim's painting's) is a flavour of ice-cream that originated some 40 years ago, and is currently exclusive to Nova Scotia!
 |
| "Pies, Pies, Pies" Wayne Thiebaud, 1961. |
 |
| "Always a Bridesmaid" Anne Marie MacEachen, Oil on Canvas, 16" x 20". |
 | ||||
| "Yellow Dress" by Wayne Thiebaud, 1974 |
Being able to catch a glimpse into what inspires the creation of a work of art can often help us gain a greater understanding and appreciation for it. If you haven't yet made it to see "Under the Influence", add it to your to-do list - the fun and quirky selection of works will surely inspire!
Image sources:
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/wayne-thiebaud-is-not-a-pop-artist-57060/
https://www.sfmoma.org/artwork/2014.343
https://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/17/books/review/Boxer-t.html
https://curiator.com/art/wayne-thiebaud/yellow-dress
