Art Adventures - by Patricia Banks©
Published October 2016 in Nanaimo Magazine, Voyager Magazine & EyesOnBC Magazine
Published October 2016 in Nanaimo Magazine, Voyager Magazine & EyesOnBC Magazine
"We do not remember days, we remember moments," said Cesare Pavese. I often think that those of us fortunate enough to live in such peaceful and extraordinary places as Vancouver Island have truly won some kind of lottery in life. Each day, I am humbled and filled with gratitude for all that Canada generously provides to its citizens and how kind and helpful people are to one another.
Every now and again, life gifts us kindred spirits; people who cross our paths that we instantly share a close connection with. As I was scrolling through the photographs I took while kayaking with friends through the Broken Islands, on the west coast of Vancouver Island, last month, I was reminded of the numerous extraordinary moments that led to my recent art adventure.
A couple of years ago, while exhibiting my artwork at a Toronto gallery, I met and subsequently befriended a local artist, who was also showing in the same gallery. Later that year, he and his wife visited me in my Nanaimo studio – a true friendship began. Our enthusiasm for, and dedication to painting launched several interesting conversations, a continuous exchange of ideas and much laughter. More memorable moments were built, one on top of the other.
My heart is filled when I am outside in the natural world absorbing the beauty of a wild landscape or listening to the sounds of the forest and sea. How grateful we are to be able to share so many moments of our lives together, immersed in the excitement and peace that Mother Nature has to offer. As I review this art adventure, I pause and reflect, and I am there in the moment with a smile on my face.
Every now and again, life gifts us kindred spirits; people who cross our paths that we instantly share a close connection with. As I was scrolling through the photographs I took while kayaking with friends through the Broken Islands, on the west coast of Vancouver Island, last month, I was reminded of the numerous extraordinary moments that led to my recent art adventure.
A couple of years ago, while exhibiting my artwork at a Toronto gallery, I met and subsequently befriended a local artist, who was also showing in the same gallery. Later that year, he and his wife visited me in my Nanaimo studio – a true friendship began. Our enthusiasm for, and dedication to painting launched several interesting conversations, a continuous exchange of ideas and much laughter. More memorable moments were built, one on top of the other.
My heart is filled when I am outside in the natural world absorbing the beauty of a wild landscape or listening to the sounds of the forest and sea. How grateful we are to be able to share so many moments of our lives together, immersed in the excitement and peace that Mother Nature has to offer. As I review this art adventure, I pause and reflect, and I am there in the moment with a smile on my face.
