Michelle Barkway

As an abstract landscape painter I am continually awed and inspired by the tall trees, cold seas, and rugged peaks of my home in Western Canada. A former aquatic biologist, I incorporate my love, knowledge, and scientific understanding of the natural world into each painting. Through continual exploration and travel I seek out new shapes, colours, compositions and experiences to bring into my work. This personal connection to each landscape lends a sense of calm, wonder and curiosity to every painting.

Using acrylic paint to create hard edges for every element, I simplify intensely complex ecosystems into their larger component parts, creating a sense of order and serenity on the canvas. With a steady hand and a level of patience reserved only for painting I build these landscapes composed of crisp shapes and vibrant colour palettes. The resulting paintings are her gentle reminder that humans are a small part of a greater ecosystem, gifted with a collective responsibility as stewards to the land.