WENDY LAMONT, May 20-31, 2006, Harlekin Galleries, Calgary

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WENDY LAMONT

Harlekin Galleries, Calgary

May 20-31, 2006

By Dina O'Meara

Wendy Lamont’s doctorate in organizational theory serves the eclectic Lethbridge native well as a social science researcher. But the unfettered possibility of abstract impressionism is where her spirit finds true expression. Evocative and moving, Lamont’s complex paintings are reflections of the artist’s inner world, from visions of a golden horizon to the serenity of prairie grasses. “I like experimenting with different styles, and don’t want to be put into a mould,” Lamont, 44, says. “But I enjoy the whole discovery aspect of abstract painting.” Lamont played with charcoal, pastels, Japanese drawing (part of her heritage) and watercolours, before focusing on acrylics in early 2000. A self-taught painter, she appreciates the guidance staff at a local art supply store gave her about different media, and the support of friends who prompted her to “come out” as an artist in 2005. “I paint whatever I’m feeling, that’s what happens on the canvas,” Lamont says. Incorporating micaceous iron oxide, marble dust, and gold mica into the layers of paint on her canvases is her latest venture — the next is learning more about the chemical properties of these elements and of acrylics.

Represented by: Harlekin Galleries, Calgary.