East Greets West
Three artists, Marnie Cooke, Jolanta Jung, and Susan Kelly have arrived at their artistic practices from different trajectories to welcome us into their shared world where East Greets West … an eclectic interpretation of philosophy and culture (that extends) its reach to far-away places and dreams.
As a former ballet dancer, choreographer, and teacher who trained at The National Ballet School, Marnie Cooke has been inspired by music all of her life. Ravel’s La Valse, for instance, inspired her piece by the same name. “I enjoy using bold colours with layers of paint to create depth and movement with impact (in my work).
Working primarily with ceramics, Jolanta Jung “admires the simplicity of form and function that is deeply rooted in tradition, especially ceramic art.” The body of her work displayed here shows those influences from Japanese art and culture.
Susan Kelly’s practice is primarily with acrylics and includes some mixed media work. Self-described as eclectic, she moves between impressionistic landscapes and abstract waterscapes to capture the essence and energy with colours and her brush work.
Come travel their worlds where the influences of majestic Canadian landscapes co-mingle with modern abstract and traditional practices emphasizing basic elements of artistic expression and techniques. Marnie, Jolanta, and Susan will be sitting as docent in the gallery by turns and look forward to greeting people as they enjoy East Greets West.