Landscapes of the North is the first solo exhibit by local artist Alison Newth. The opening of the exhibit on Friday, April 7, was well attended, with citizens of the Peace region stopping by to appreciate the work of the Fort St. John artist.
“It was so much more than I expected. This is my first solo show, and you never know how you're going to be received, truly, until you put yourself out there like that,” says Newth.
“I was overwhelmed with the amount of people that came out and all the love and support I got from them. It was better than I could have ever expected.”
Although she started with acrylics, Newth paints predominantly with oils now, which she started learning about two to three years ago, and the medium showcased in the exhibit. Landscapes of the North reflects the abundant beauty within the Peace region and captivates the viewers with its vivid palette of colours.
“The surrounding area is so beautiful, and I always wanted to have that beauty in my house and to be able to be around it more,” says Newth. “That’s why I started painting, I feel; because I wanted the beautiful landscapes closer to me, and that was motivating.”
Newth has been a member of Flying Colours for the last several years, and is a member of the Peace River Chapter of the Federation of Canadian artists.
“It was finding that group of people at Flying Colours, seeing what they were doing, and getting support and encouragement from them is really what propelled me forward,” she says.
“If I hadn’t found that group, there is no doubt in my mind that this exhibit would not have occurred. I would not be where I am today. That’s the biggest thing, find that group of people.”
Landscapes of the North is on display at Peace Gallery North until April 29.
