"2011 Rabbit" Painting

The work of Samuel Bietenholz looks at the urban landscape as an ever-changing environment. Reflected between the prospects of development and the loss of historic places is an understanding of the changes across the city's horizon. Shifting urbanity is depicted in sweeping panoramas that capture viewers, drawing them in with a presence to a particular place and time. The work is derivative from the perspective a community inhabitant who is trying to render both his emotional connection to a place, as well record a visual history for present and future generations.
The current Future Ghost series focuses specifically on gentrification as a powerful force in the urban landscape. Gentrification represents the re-colonization of neighbourhoods, usually by wealthier and more able inhabitants - hence the notion of the returning of the gentry. The works look at city-scapes to be gentrified, overshadowed by the impending residents of buildings that will replace the existing environment. Rather than the ghosts being spirits from the past, the ghosts of future inhabitants haunt the present community.
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Born 1963, Khartoum, Sudan. Raised Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Bachelor of Environmental Studies 1987, U. of Manitoba; Master of Landscape Architecture 1991 U. of Manitoba. Currently active as artist, landscape architect and urban designer in Toronto, Ontario.