ZOOM | Spring 2016

The beauty of the landscape contains a narrative . . . I listen and I am heard. This relationship with my surroundings on
the Pacific West Coast is the starting point of my experience with nature. My conversation is defined by three elements,
which stand out for me in a very prominent way. Overlooking the ocean and coastal mountain ranges, expanse is definitely
a distinctive characteristic that is hard to deny when looking at British Columbia’s vast landscapes. The second prominent
element is light, which to me is mesmerizing. It leaves a signature on whatever is present; it defines the moment as is, always
leaving it unique. Last but not least are the different textures and the way they communicate with my senses. The bark of a
tree, the softness of the moss, the sand on the beach, the smoothness of a reflection in the water . . .
My intention is to capture the beauty, the expanse, and the feeling that the landscape radiates, so that I can share my
interpretation of this special moment with others. For me it’s really more about re-creating an experience rather than
producing a painting. On a canvas I am able to translate my perspective using paint and to define the moment through these
three prominent elements. On one hand, painting is about captivating the spirit of your surroundings; on the other, there needs
to be an awareness and focus toward shaping the image. I try to find a balance between the two and ”push the paint around”
until my canvas correctly portrays the experience I intend to share. – Marleen Vermeulen
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