The Artists of Georgian Bay

I was happy to be invited to participate in "The Artists of Georgian Bay".  As a solitary, almost hermit artist, I prefer to trace my own artistic journey. My goal is simply to learn and get better - both in art and life. It takes considerable time and effort to produce 2900 paintings - a number I expect to reach later this year. The intent is for the art to speak for itself freeing up time for me to simply create. I believe it is impossible to go anywhere new by following someone else. I want my artistic statements to be unique even though I certainly admire the art of many contemporary and past artists.  

As a result, I was quite surprised to be approached by Andrea Hillo, Publisher and Graphic Artist. I was even more surprised to discover that my friend Roy had already endorsed Andrea and her art projects. 

“Your books on area artists are important

contributions to Canadian culture.

I salute you.”
Roy MacGregor - the globe and mail, Author

Andrea can be contacted at PO Box 88 Harcourt, ON, K0L 1X0 or by email at: hillodesign@gmail.com

Here is a preview of the book and my contribution to the effort. I will have 25 copies available and will gladly sign or possibly remarque these. 

Art is a way of life. I surround myself with nature, enjoying the quiet beauty which can be found just outside my Studio door. Although I still love to get out and paint around Georgian Bay!

Here are some prized comments contributed during my artistic journey so far ... 

“You are our plein air inspiration, descendant in spirit from Tom Thomson himself!” Aleta Karstad

 “Wonderful, fresh and dynamic” Robert and Birgit Bateman

"Phil Chadwick's Canoe Lake series is wonderful. He not only captures the water and fall colours perfectly, but the 'personality' of the shoreline and cottages that make this lake so very special." Roy MacGregor

“I never tire of looking at Phil’s paintings. He is a prolific Plein air painter who has masterfully perfected the art of bringing the distinctive wild, beautiful Canadian landscape to life. His work makes me homesick. And he is the best Plein air Companion!” Leslie Allen - Allen Fine Art Studio

The Artists of Georgian Bay

Warmest regards and keep your paddle in the water,

Phil Chadwick

Healing through art - Brightshores Health System Art

 

Brightshore Health System in Owen Sound invited emerging and professional artists to submit art pieces that were imaginative and original interpretations of "Recovery through Meaning, Belonging, Purpose and Hope". The message is essentially the meaning of life for me. My long-time friend Herbert Pryke suggested that I submit some pieces. We had worked together to raise funds in support of the protection of the Greenbelt and Oak Ridges Moraine. See "Connecting with Nature" which raised tens of thousands of dollars to preserve nature. 

Brightshore Health System affirmed that each of the selected pieces exemplifies how art can connect people, promote kindness, focus on building relationships, and celebrate diversity. I might add that art can also connect us to nature, the source of unlimited benefits. There are nineteen paintings on display so far...

I was very pleased to have the following six paintings selected.. so this is Good News Friday. A wonderful way to end the week. Thank you to the Brightshores Health System and many successes ahead. 

#0523 "Paradise", #0527 "Morning Beach", #0721 "The Guardian"; #1183 "Ragged Waters", #1538 "A Longer Reach", #1643 "August Sunset"

"As we prepare to welcome clients into our new Wellness & Recovery Centre, we are thrilled to highlight features from our local community within the facility.

The art project that you submitted to will convey the theme “Recovery through Meaning, Belonging, Purpose and Hope”; these pieces carry support from our community throughout the building and enhances our client’s experience.

Each of the selected pieces exemplify how art can connect people, promote kindness, focus on building relationships, and celebrate diversity.

The attached prints of your art will be showcased at our upcoming community events.

Thank you for being a part of this project and we look forward to displaying your art throughout the Wellness & Recovery Centre."

Having started in oils in 1967 with Mario Airomi, there is a lot of art in my oeuvre. I am currently working on painting number 2864. Most of my art can be seen in Fine Art America which I joined a decade ago. The six paintings above can be viewed there along with 2366 others. I do not have quality images of some of my early work although the story behind every piece is recorded. 

The web of the Internet allows anyone and everyone to see art while I am allowed the freedom to simply paint and look after nature. So far 1.67 million people have visited my site while I am free to simply paint, paddle and stay home... Life is very good. 

Keep your paddle in the water,

Phil Chadwick