Studio22 Open Gallery is pleased to present Trees, new prints by Rebecca Cowan.

“I can’t recall exactly when I decided to start making the tree images. Possibly it was on one of those early mornings when I was having trouble moving into my day. As I sat there half-daydreaming, half-procrastinating, I looked out at the walnut trees behind my house. Their stark forms were silhouetted against the grey sky. There they stood, persevering day after day, as they faced the changing seasons. They continued to stand tall whether their branches were bare, budding, full of fruit, or losing their leaves. Even when they got knocked down by wind or ice, their roots just went a little deeper and they continued to grow. Through everything that came their way the trees remained strong and elegant. Suddenly, I found myself inspired by their beauty, their power and their resilience.

I wondered if trees were offering us life lessons. They always seem ready to bend with the unexpected changes the world brings, and to grow in new ways into whatever space is available to them. If we watch trees day after day, can we learn something about standing tall when faced with adversity? Does their example of renewal, perseverance and flexibility give us strength?

Perhaps this quote from Marcel Proust gives us an answer:

“We have nothing to fear and a great deal to learn from trees, that vigorous and pacific tribe which without stint produces strengthening essences for us, soothing balms, and in whose gracious company we spend so many cool, silent, and intimate hours.”

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Friday – 12 to 5 pm & evenings 7 to 10 pm
Sunday – 1 to 4:30 pm
(Anytime by appointment)