Vibrant scenes in dream tones is the focus for November as the Hope Arts Gallery hosts Light Up Your Life, a solo exhibition featuring the works of local artist Diane Mackenzie.
Taking place from Nov. 1 to Nov. 28, in the Back Room Gallery, the Hope community will get the chance to view Mackenzie’s love for landscapes, animals, flowers, and trees through the mediums of watercolour, acrylic, and mixed media. The show will explore the theme of light and how it can change both the emotions evoked in a piece and they way we view the creations it touches.
“Being a full time caregiver for her husband is her primary focus these days. So, we are so fortunate that she has been able to find the time and energy to create this new show,” the gallery said via a press release.
A part of Hope for the past six years, who used to be an active member of the gallery, Mackenzie said she is thrilled to be showing off her work for the public to see. According to artist, her “love affair with painting” started as a child after her mother, who was an oil painter, encouraged her to develop her artistic endeavours. She said she was always attracted to light, and drawing in the dirt and on the fenders of old rusty trucks. This passion eventually evolved into her creating a niche for herself and, throughout her high school years, Mackenzie used her drawing skills to help with her school’s drama class and newspaper.
After graduating, the artist worked in Fort McMurray in construction where she was one of the first nine women to join the Labourer’s Union in Alberta. After leaving construction, she became a realtor before moving to B.C. and getting her BC Trades Qualified Painter/Decorator ticket. She worked in this field until her retirement.
Mackenzie said that it took her a while to learn watercolours but, once she did, she fell in love with it and gladly shared her expertise when she still taught painting. As a teacher, she enjoyed introducing people to the world of painting and sharing her philosophy of having fun with her students.
Recently, the artist had to make the switch to using acrylics more, as they are easier for her to work with (she has essential tremors in both hands) when painting with the Friday painters, who meet in the Grace Baptist Church Hall.
After opening day, the exhibition will be available to see Wednesday through Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is staffed by volunteers of the gallery. Admission is free and everyone is encouraged to visit.
An artist’s reception, where people can meet and speak with Mackenzie, will take place on Nov. 2 at the gallery from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.