By JUDI
KOSKI
Award-winning Sudbury artist Christy A. Smith paints 'en
plein air,' completing her artwork outdoors in all weather,
in all seasons; patiently devoting whatever length of time it
takes to be finished.
"I try to emulate the colourist techniques of the Group of Seven and specifically Tom Thomson, because he paints outside, and that's what I do. The piece could literally end up with signs of the environment on it, that makes it even more interesting," says Smith. "And I particularly like the impressionistic style, colours and choice of subject in our Canadian landscape."
Why does she do what she does? " I have a strong visual sense and passion for colour," she says. "I enjoy designing and planning compositions and documenting what I see. It also allows me to capture the mood and ambiance of the landscape.
"I enjoy being outside all four seasons and am highly motivated to do 'plein air' work," she continues. "Finally, and most importantly, I get an emotional and physical sense of harmony and gratification when I paint."
Smith has quite a list of accomplishments: while at Cambrian College she won several honorariums, scholarships and grants including the Ontario Craft Council. Several of her pieces were selected for the Cambrian Student Art Collection and her painting, 'Sudbury Winter Magic' was selected for the cover of the Convention and Visitor's Services of Sudbury Guide. She was also honoured when one of her paintings was selected by the college as a gift to the Right Honourable Stephen Lewis, the former Canadian Ambassador to the U.N.
Smith is having a solo Spring Art Exhibition and sale of original works done in watercolour, pastel and graphite. The event will showcase 50 original framed paintings and over 153 various sketches on greeting cards, that she has lovingly produced over the past number of years.
Meet the artist, Saturday, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at B Creative Framing & Art Supplies, 2354 Long Lake Road. For further information call 522-1221.
