Whether you call the Elk Valley your home or your home away from home, inspiration from the many facets of nature and wildlife is impossible to ignore.
For Karen Cook, she has been able to take this inspiration to the next level using her talent in artistry to create The Art Station’s latest gallery exhibit, Back of Beyond.
Those early years of absorbing and internalizing the raw beauty of her environment were the inspiration for the paintings she does today.
‘Back of Beyond’ is a compilation of pieces created by Cook in her specialty, oil painting, but also features some of her work in photography. Her use of earthy tones and composition give a glance into the heart of this Natal native and allows the viewer to see just how much of an impact her environment and upbringing have played on her work.
Cook says, “Art begins in the imagination, long before an artist touches a canvas with a paintbrush.” Considering the nature of her pieces, it is safe to say Cook’s imagination has been largely affected by the many memories of the wilderness and landscape she has been immersed in since birth.
Join Karen Cook and guests at The Arts Station on Thursday, June 28 at 7 p.m. for her exhibition opening. Light refreshments and a cash bar will be available on site so you are encouraged to come early and stay late.
The exhibit will continue until Tuesday, July 24.