Week 1: Studio Explorations
George describes the studio as a space where “you can find solutions to the problems of the world.” This concept underpins much of his work. Visually, his studio space is constantly shifting, with numerous works in progress, small still life installations found in corners or on shelves, and a variety of reading material and mementos from friends and family - all offering a variety of viewpoints from which to create. George’s current studio is at Christopher Lake, where his practice has been based since 2005.
This exhibition shows three paintings of different studios. They were created approximately 20 years apart from one another:
George’s studio in the basement of the Prince Albert Daily Herald is depicted in Studio Corner, 1979;
Connie Freedy’s spacious and light-filled studio is in the piece Connie’s Studio, 2002, and was located in the former CB Department Store on the north-west corner of 10th and Central Avenue, visible from the Hicks Gallery;
Andreé’s Studio, 2020-21 is a remembrance of George’s dear friend, Andrée Felley-Martinson, after her passing in 2019.
That George thought to depict studio interiors at three different points, spanning more than 40 years, speaks to the importance of dedicated spaces for exploration, contemplation, and creation.
Physically, studios provide comfort through their familiarity, often filled with artists’ personal keepsakes. But they also promote play and experimentation. For George, the studio allows him to step into a mindset where ideas can materialize, where his interior self can make the exterior world understandable.
Jesse Campbell, Curator
George Glenn, "Looking For Priorities," 1998, oil and gold leaf on canvas, 6 x 5'
George Glenn, "Self Portrait #29" and "Self Portrait #2," 2002, oil on canvas, 20 x 10"
George Glenn, "Studio Corner," 1979, oil on canvas, 36 x 24"
George Glenn, "Time & Memory: Postcard from Les Neven," 1990, acrylic on paper, 41 x 25"
George Glenn, "Connie's Studio," 2002, oil on canvas, 7 x 4'
Left: George Glenn, "Pink Coffee Pot," 2020, acrylic on wood panel, 19.5 x 15.75 Right: George Glenn, "Yellow Composition with Andree's Pink Plate," 2020, acrylic on canvas, 12 x 12"
George Glenn, "There Is No Empty Space," 2000, etched plexiglass, 12 x 12 x 12"
George Glenn, "Winter Raven," 2008, oil on canvas, 24 x 30"
George Glenn, "Self Portrait #2," 2002, oil on canvas, 12 x 6"
George Glenn, "Andree's Studio," 2020-21, acrylic on canvas, 4 x 5'
George Glenn, "Accordion Drawing," 2003, ink and watercolour on paper
George Glenn, "Accordion Drawing," 2003, ink and watercolour on paper
George Glenn, "Accordion Drawing," 2003, ink and watercolour on paper
George Glenn, "Accordion Drawing," 2003, ink and watercolour on paper