You are Invited

Join Helen Utsal on March 5th as she celebrates the opening of her show Forest Coast running from March 5 – March 27, 2010 at the Muir  Gallery

Exhibiting her paintings at Canadian galleries since 2006, and in Comox Valley group exhibitions such as Originals Only and Local Colours, Helen is pleased to fill the Muir gallery with her latest collection. Large canvases and panels can be viewed as windows as you walk from the ancient rainforest of Vancouver Island, out to the vast ocean and beach. Helens expressive paintings are saturated with rich colours only oil paint can achieve.

“Inspiration comes easily, trail running through rainforests on beautiful Vancouver Island, camping and exploring hidden bays on the coast. I feel compelled and challenged to try to capture the vibrancy and wealth of this place where I live. The name ‘Comox’ is taken from the original people: the K’omoks Indian band, who referred to it as ‘the land of plenty’; this could describe the whole island!

When visiting favorite ancient trees, and breathing in the mystical serenity they exude, or feeling the oceans elastic power pound through me as I struggle to hang on to my surfboard, I want to capture these feelings and share these experiences.

This collection is inspired by the earth and sea. I present them to you. May you be reminded of the immense value of our untouched natural landscape; the value of trees that are standing, and living.”

Wine and cheese will be served at the opening at 7:00 pm. The exhibition runs until March 27.