Art lovers will get a chance to view a ‘Unique Collaboration,’ at the Quesnel Art Gallery for the next month.
The exhibit displays the abstract paintings of a pair of local artists, Simonne Young and Christa Krisman.
The gallery was setting up the display on Sept. 2, and the exhibit will open on Sept. 8.
“We tend to do similar work,” Young said. “[Krisman’s] work is bigger, and she uses computer parts.”
Both said they like the freedom that abstract paintings give the artist.
“I just put colour on the canvas - many, many layers.” Krisman said. “Then I try to see something in those shapes. I work with those - put more in or take something out. It’s all emotion, how you feel at that moment - that’s what you paint. The next day could be totally different.”
The duo met three years ago when Krisman was looking for a place to share her work, and contacted Young at an art co-op. They became friends quickly.
Both have taught classes on abstract painting.
“I’ve always encouraged people not to get their face right in there and worry about the little details,” Young said. “Just free your hand and free your mind. Sometimes right away you see something in it, and have fun with it.”
Krisman’s work involves more mixed media, adding in physical objects to the paintings to add texture. Young incorporates more impressionist vibes, with glimpses of buildings and trees inside the abstract piece.
“Some pieces are just easy,” Krisman said. “Some you are slaving away at it until you are satisfied. You paint as long as it needs.”
The COVID-19 pandemic has prevented the duo from hosting an artist’s talk for the show, so they’re working on getting the word out about the exhibit in other ways.
“It’s a difficult time,” Krisman said. “But at least you don’t just have [paintings] in your studio - it’s not doing anything there.”
The Quesnel Art Gallery is located in the Quesnel Recreation Centre. ‘Unique Collaboration’ will be on display until Sept. 30.
READ MORE: “We’re still here” – Anishinabemowen artist celebrates culture at Wells gallery
READ MORE: Solo exhibition “Pastel Stories” debuts at Quesnel Art Gallery