Well-known Valley artist Joe Smith will hold a solo exhibition and sale of his work at Filberg Lodge in Comox on May 7 and 8.
This will be his first show of the season and he has quite a number of new works that will be shown for the first time.
Painting in acrylics and watercolour, Smith’s style of painting takes a realistic approach to capturing the landscape of the West Coast.
“My concept of painting,” says Smith, “revolves around the idea of providing people with a window that can open up fond memories of a place they have been or give others a glimpse of why B.C. is considered one of the best places in the world to live.”
Many of the paintings in this show have been done in the past few months, as Smith was forced to take a four-month unscheduled break due to a health issue which he says has turned out for the best.
“The time off actually allowed me to do some refocusing on my approach to putting paint to paper and canvas,” says Smith. “Over the past four months, I have been taking a more direct approach to painting which has given my work a little more freedom in how I resolve depicting a scene.”
The paintings in this show provide a good cross-section of works that highlight favourite spots on the West Coast of the Island as well as local scenes that most Valley residents will recognize.
While Smith’s scenes are recognizable, one of the comments he hears most often is that they convey a sense of serenity.
“I’m delighted people can read that into my paintings,” says Smith. “It is not something I consciously do, but I suppose it comes from a desire to show how focusing on nature can give us a sense of well-being.”
Smith has been exhibiting his works at Filberg Lodge for a number of years and says that it is one of the nicest venues to showcase art. Built in the 1930s, the Lodge is a reflection of the Valley’s history and because it is a home, it allows people to see works of art in a more natural setting.
As a bonus, the Tea House will be open as will the Lodge’s Gift Shop.
The Filberg Lodge is located at 61 Filberg Rd. in Comox. The art show is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.
— Joe Smith