Central to this collection is my passion for egg tempera. Having discovered that this ancient technique is almost untouched in modern Canadian art, I wanted to unveil its timeless beauty. This is the very medium used by Renaissance masters, prized for its unmatched brilliance and durability. Earth, Water, and Light. When we look at the masterpieces of the Early Renaissance, from the ethereal icons of Byzantium to the breathtaking panels of Sandro Botticelli, we are witnessing the enduring magic of egg tempera. Long before the invention of oil paint or modern acrylics, this ancient medium was the pinnacle of artistic expression. As an artist bringing this rare tradition to Nova Scotia, I invite you to explore the fascinating alchemy behind the luminous works in this exhibition. At its core, egg tempera is a beautiful paradox: a medium born from the most basic, natural elements, yet capable of producing otherworldly brilliance. One of the most remarkable and practical qualities of egg tempera is that it is water-soluble. This makes the medium incredibly clean, odorless, and highly convenient to work with in the studio. Over time, as the paint cures, it creates an incredibly tough, permanent bond. Unlike oil paints, which naturally turn yellow and become brittle with age, egg tempera never loses its original color. The vibrant blues, rich ochres, and deep vermilions you see today will look exactly the same centuries from now.
To complete this rigorous artistic journey, I finish each of my paintings by sealing them with a protective layer of high-quality varnish. Through this exhibition, I hope to share not just a collection of images, but a revival of history’s first paint—where nature, history, and craftsmanship unite on the canvas.
With this exhibition, I hope to inspire the local community and share the rich, luminous colors of history’s first paint.
