Trans-Canada Drive-by exhibition

Visitors to Galerie de la ville in Dollard des Ormeaux have an opportunity to observe the country from an original perspective as seen through the eyes of Patricia Morris. Entitled the Trans-Canada Drive-by Landscape Series, the solo exhibition is an intriguing collection of mainly semi-abstract oil paintings as viewed from the open road.

“I did a lot of driving from the east to the west coast with family while I was growing up, and later with my own kids. Many of the images show motion – they’re seen from the car window,” explained the Pointe Claire resident, adding they offer largely fleeting glimpses of different scenes and subjects while travelling, from prairie storms to the forest floor.

Morris is an award-winning artist whose works can be found in a number of private collections and galleries. Prior to the current show her most recent expositions were at Place Bonaventure and the Toronto Convention Centre.

“I try to create images that bring joy and strike a chord of positive energy in the hearts of everyone who sees them,” she said.

“Lately I’ve been changing the way I present myself as an artist. Beginning with this show, I’m starting to go in the direction of cultural centres and public galleries. The purpose is to collect and see the works together as a whole,” Morris said, adding the response at the vernissage “was very good.”

The exhibition continues until June 28.

In addition to her career as a professional artist, she is also involved on a volunteer level with local charitable organizations, and is vice-president of West Island Residences for the Intellectually Handicapped.

“Also, for the past 20 years, I’ve donated an image to the West Island Association for the Intellectually Handicapped for their Christmas card campaign. The card for 2009 will be a painting of the sugar shack at Cap St. Jacques Park.”

Galerie de la ville is located in the Civic Centre at 12001 de Salaberry Blvd. Hours are Tues. to Wed. from noon to 4 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 2 to 5 p.m., and weekends from 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, call 514-684-1010 or visit www.patricia-morris.net.

Chronicle, Jacques Pharand