Suzanne Bessette

Recent Work
Martin Batchelor Gallery 2007
and Island Mountain Gallery, Wells, BC 2006

Home n 3. a place thought of as home; specifically, (a) a place one likes to be; a place thought of as the centre of one’s affection; restful or congenial place (b) the grave.

My recent work is informed by the connection/sense of place that I feel for my Canadian hometown of Wells, BC where I lived from 1974-1981.  I continue to be drawn back to Wells as a place of possibility, creativity and freedom.

I began work on this series in the winter of 2006, painting in artist Marie Nagel’s studio in Wells. These studies were used as reference material for the larger paintings that I later completed in my Victoria studio. As the work developed I looked for other images that recalled my past residence, i.e., the profoundly red poppies that survived the harsh winters to bloom in my yard on Bowman Crescent, graphs documenting the price of gold and of course snow. The winter series was exhibited at the Wells, Island Mountain Gallery in the summer of ’06.

I returned to Wells again in the Spring of ’07 and set up a studio in my friend Paul’s cabin. Spring introduced a new palate and focus to my work. Dry matted grasses released from the weight of winter snow, contrasted by crisp blue skies and budding willows grabbed my attention. Walks through the meadow along the Willow River inspired several paintings, as did the wonderful chaos of Paul’s yard.

I hope my affection for Wells as a place I think of as home is evident in the paintings. Thanks to all who have encouraged and supported my efforts!