MacLennan, Joanne

Primarily self-taught, Joanne has been an artist and creator since she was a young girl. Now, 40 years later, her interests lie in observing her surroundings while exploring beautiful areas where she lives, in Nova Scotia, Canada, and beyond. She works mainly with acrylic in her home studio, and prefers larger format canvas to allow space and movement between each brushstroke.

Joanne currently serves as Co-President of the Fisherman's Cove Gallery in Eastern Passage. You may see her at a local Art Battle event, battling it out on the canvas with other inspiring creators.

Artist Statement

The natural colours of the earth pull deeply at my heart. I am drawn to the reddest of reds, with the most vibrant of greens, and everything in between. I am interested in the pull between light and shadow, the wild texture of the landscape, and find each tonal value invigorating. The land has a story to tell; a song it sings. I feel drawn to capture a moment in that story, pull it together within myself, and mix the melody back into my paints and onto the canvas. The story of the land becomes my own. 

Creating is a process where I seek to be open, persistent, and courageous. This flexibility invites growth and adventure into my work, allowing me space to explore and experiment with colour, shape, and form. For the last several years I have been painting with acrylic, and love how this vibrant medium responds quickly to my demands--shifting quickly if I change course at any point in a painting. 

I find it captivating to discover what draws viewers into my work. I could say that my path is my own, but as people connect with my paintings I find bonds are made, stories are shared, and strangers become new friends. I love how all the messy parts of being\ a painter are mixed in with the final, finished piece. My art practice allows me direct connection to this beautiful world we live in, and brings an incredible amount of joy and peace into my life. I paint hoping those feelings of gratitude are reflected in my work, and bring joy to those who view it.