The Pearl Ellis Gallery starts off the new year with Now and Then: Paintings by Stephanie Wood from Jan. 8 to 26.
Wood spent 25 years living on the island of Cyprus before moving back to Vancouver Island five years ago. This exhibition presents canvases contrasting the exuberant colours and strong Middle Eastern themes of one island with the healing greens and delicate leaf patterns of the other.
Included in the retrospective show is a world of Mediterranean magic gardens imbued with the spirit of the Creator in gratitude and celebration evident throughout Wood’s work.
Tiny sailboats nestle in patches of vibrant foliage. Miniature Greek churches glow white on flat edged leaves. Fish fly serenely in groups through garden patios, and sometimes the odd living room.
Wood has had solo exhibitions in Cyprus, Israel, England and France. Her work hangs in these countries, as well as in Canada and the U.S. She received a bachelor of fine arts from the University of Victoria. She resides in Comox.
An opening reception will be held on Saturday, Jan. 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Admission is free.
The Pearl Ellis Gallery is located at 1729 Comox Ave. in Comox. It’s open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and closed Sunday/Monday. Free admission.
For more information about the gallery, and to see a virtual display of the exhibition, visit http://www.pearlellisgallery.com