All my adolescent and young adult years were spent breathing in the salty air of coastal waters. I love the sea. Moody and unpredictable, the water can soothe the soul as on this sunny day near Sydney, BC, yet it also possesses the power to tear a city apart and sink ships.
A Sejour on Vancouver Island
My parents took up residence on Vancouver Island for a brief while. Still in elementary school I failed to fully appreciate the beauty surrounding us. Here the ocean waters flow from the Arctic, enough to chill the bones.
Setting sail for Australia
Just before my thirteenth birthday my family set sail on the HMS Iberia bound for Australia. Stopping in Las Angeles we said goodbye to some aunts and uncles we would not see again. Hawaii, still pristine before the fast-food stands arrived, captivated our imaginations as we shopped and waded in its warm waters. A typhoon made the crossing to Japan interesting and nauseous. I first saw poverty in Hong Kong. A memorable birthday celebration onboard preceded our stop in Manila, and eventually we arrived in Perth.
Enjoying the Seashore
Most of the Australian population hugs the ocean shore where people excel at surfing and all water sports. My previously sheltered life allowed me some swimming lessons for which I am most grateful. Swimming is an exercise I continue to enjoy even though I live far from the coast in the middle of a continent. Occasionally I stop doing laps and just lie in the water allowing it to soothe my soul.
Soon to be Seen!
“Salty Source/source saline” is on display along with four other 40x40in canvases from my series on water. CAVA (9103 95 Ave Edmonton AB) offers refreshments at the opening reception on 5th February between 5pm and 7pm. Would love to see you there. Do check out my "Events" page on my website https://www.karenblanchet.ca for other upcoming shows.
