WELCOME TO GREY GALLERY, IN DOWNTOWN OWEN SOUND

The opposing styles and approaches of these two artists strikes the viewer immediately upon entering the exhibition. It is a crowded space, clamoring for attention, like life itself. There is no doubt about which artist has created each piece. Daciana Dao’s rich and complex symbolism and iconography, her exuberant colour palette and consistent technique are clearly recognizable. She looks on the world and sees joy all around – in human interactions, and especially in nature. John Laughlin’s choice of materials and artistic technique are varied but his viewpoint too is clear. He captures both the personal and the global pain and sorrow inherent in human life. In both artists’ work the figure, and the eye in particular, predominates. The Joy co-exists with The Sorrow here, in jarring and sometimes uncomfortable juxtapositions, but there is also a harmony. We hope that this exhibition will encourage the viewer to contemplate that duality, and spark a process to reflect on the balance between the two in their own lives. 

The ‘meet the artists’ reception will take place on Saturday July 19, at 2pm and all are welcome to attend. As an added incentive there will be live music in the adjoining Grey Gallery garden by Dave Hawkins between 1 and 3pm. We hope to see you then.