Tucked away in the high-tech manufacturing plant of Varasmus corporation lurks a collection of First Nations artist Arthur Shilling. Armed with a newspaper clipping advertising an exhibition of his work, we headed out to find Varasmus in the south of Ottawa.
Those who have taken a portrait course with me will recognize his 1985 self-portrait, his last. I use it as an example of expression and vibrancy, with a darker edginess. You can see how he painted it too – a brown and black under-painting lurks beneath. I am an advocate of under-painting or at least a rough value layout and Shilling’s self portrait is a fine example of this too – it’s more measured than it looks.
Of the 13 Shillings on display, 12 are portraits. Shilling was unusual as an aboriginal artist in pursuing the portrait as a means of expression over more traditional narratives. Although I am not an expert on his work, the exhibition shows him to be a master at capturing something of the personality of those around him.
You can check out the exhibition on-line
The exhibition runs until the end of the month, by appointment 613 247 9373 or mark@varasmus.com.