‘Harbinger’ exhibit features unique paint application
Myth, secret histories and alternative theories surrounding accepted knowledge are three elements explored in “Harbinger” by first-time and local artist Bryan Wiebe.
“Harbinger” is running through Oct. 21 and is part of a three-exhibit series on display at Casa exploring cultural narratives — traditional and fantastic.
“(Wiebe) is a self-taught artist, and he is interested in themes of alternative theories and secret histories,” said Casa curator Darcy Logan. “Things that are at the fringes of our cultural discourse.”
“Harbinger” features a number of large paintings using an unusual tool for paint application — a toothpick.
Logan said the gallery is usually a space reserved for professional artists, who either have formal training or have a track record of exhibits. Wiebe’s exhibit is an exception to that general rule.
Logan first heard of Wiebe after receiving a call from him two years ago asking for input on some art he had done.
“He said he paints with toothpicks,” said Logan. “I thought, ‘Oh, wow!’”
Logan said after seeing the work, he was immediately interested.
“I thought, ‘This guy has got to get a show,’” he said. “All the intricate detail and fields of colour have all been built up by dipping a humble toothpick in a tube of paint and building these almost mosaiclike paintings you see.”
The use of the toothpick has created a unique texture to them.
“If it was a brush, it would be blended out, and you’d see nothing,” Logan said.
Wiebe stated he hopes to inspire people to create their own art.
“I hope my work provokes thought in others and hopefully inspires people to create something of their own — whatever that might be,” he said in a Casa news release.
“These images, I hope people can appreciate the attention to detail and the idea that you find artists in all sorts of unusual places,” Logan said. “You don’t necessarily have them coming out of university. They can be all kinds of interesting people sharing interesting ideas.”