Chalk.Gourds.002 Drawing

"I paint overlooked objects that have been used to express a lifetime of kindness through everyday exchanges. I was myopic early in my youth, and became fascinated with things close up. Now, I observe treasured objects that resonate with the memory of countless tasks, conversations, and loving words. Moments of rest, indecision, prayer, the pause before we speak, the communion with ourselves or with others are the quiet moments celebrated in my canvases. Small everyday beauty can be overlooked just as easily as the seemingly insignificant kindnesses of everyday exchanges." In her former career in commercial art, promoting food and beverage, she came to appreciate the universal significance of small pleasures shared with friends and family. Mick Coulas encouraged her to develop larger work in still life. It is her life with him that has inspired her to capture the caring attentiveness required to count small blessings with an open heart. Biography: Born 1960 in Swift Current, Saskatchewan, Candace Lourdes grew up on a grain farm. She trained at Ontario College of Art, Toronto, studying design, photography, drawing and painting. Photography became a strong influence on her manner of composition. She currently lives with her husband, Mick Coulas in Venice, Florida.