“Taiga”

     On October 19, 2006 GuidingStar.ca visited the Kathleen Gormley McKay Art Centre at 197 Main Street, Unionville to chat with artist Sylvio Gagnon and enjoy the beautiful paintings by this Ontario artist which are on display from October 18 to 22.

     Sylvio Gagnon hails originally from Hearst and it is clear from his work that growing up close to the rugged landscapes of Northern Ontario inspired his love of the outdoors and his preference for painting en plein air--outside, and face to face with his subject. We admired in particular his painting “Taiga” and enjoyed his narration of the rigorous trip involved in reaching the location that inspired it, traveling by all-terrain vehicle before embarking in a canoe to take on the frequent rapids of the Missinaibi River. The result is a breathtaking painting that captures the force of the river and the ruggedness of the surroundings.

     The exhibition includes many other moving and delightful scenes from the Canadian outdoors. Some present nature in stark, or riotous, beauty. Others feature small towns, blending with their natural setting, seen from a hilltop.

     Now living in Ottawa, Mr. Gagnon also enjoys capturing the popular Rideau Canal, its winter ice offering recreation to skaters and a unique view of our capital and Parliament.

     Sylvio Gagnon travels by recreational vehicle throughout North America, his easels and canvasses always on board, in search of new subjects. He has plans for a trip to Arizona, and the Grand Canyon, and we eagerly await the new paintings that will emerge from such a spectacular destination.

     You can see more of Mr. Gagnon’s work on his website, www.sylviogagnon.com.

 Grant Weaver            

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