Artists share passion for nature

BY JUDI KOSKI

A shared passion for art and the natural world is evident in the  talents of Sudbury artists Cheryl Battistelli, Debra Lynn Ireland and Sue Lampinen.

A growing respect for each other's unique abilities has allowed the trio to inspire one another, and in turn grow artistically. Hence, the inception in 2001 of their collaborative efforts entitled Nature in Art - 3 visions .

Cheryl Battistelli uses pastel to portray both wild and domestic animals, focusing on fine detail, soft edges and light. Spending childhood summers at her family cottage near Killarney Provincial Park has provided her with a strong appreciation for the beauty and variety of natural subjects.

Debra Lynn Ireland's watercolour and acrylic paintings have always reflected her passion and commitment to wildlife, capturing the emotions of her subjects while concentrating on their physical details. Originally from Scarborough, she finds her inspiration from her own real life experiences with wildlife around her new home in Sudbury.

Sue Lampinen uses pastel on sandpaper to depict the dramatic dance of light and colour in her landscapes, and is especially inspired to capture the serene beauty of winter and snow. Born and raised in Sudbury she began exploring art at a very early age.  The north's rugged landscape fueled a need to represent its beauty through art. An article in December 2007 Pastel Journal magazine featured her snow scenes of Sudbury, and she was also a finalist in International Artist Magazine's Landscape Art Competition February/March issue.

The artists will be presenting their new works at the 4th biennial art exhibition and sale on Saturday, March 29, from 10 am to 8 pm at the Holiday Inn (formerly the Caswell), 1696 Regent Street South. For further details contact Susan Lampinen at (705) 522-8068.