An installation in Gallery II, Nov 10 – Dec 30, 2021

Artist Talk on Zoom: Wednesday December 1, 7pm-8pm.

From November 10 to December 30, as part of our 7th Anniversary Show, Sivarulrasa Gallery is pleased to present KAREN HAINES: RHYTHM & HUES, an installation by artist Karen Haines that celebrates the role of music in her family life. The installation includes several much-loved musical instruments that belong to her family.

Based in Edmonton, Alberta, Karen Haines was born in Ontario and raised by Air Force parents who lived and explored across Canada and Europe. She has been drawing from her earliest memories, and began her studio practice in oils in 2002. She paints still life works in her studio, as well as plein air paintings outdoors. In her still life works, she captures the magic of domestic life, with careful compositions and vibrant contrasts in light and shadow.

Artist Statement by Karen Haines

Growing up I was exposed to so much beautiful music – most of my aunts and uncles played guitars, fiddle, accordion, and harmonica.  My father was in the air force, so we lived far away from my extended family until I was 13.  I remember the musical tapes that would come in the mail filled with the joyous sounds of family laughing, singing, dancing and chatting with us from afar. When we finally returned to Alberta, I got to experience the music live. It meant long hours of adults playing and singing and dancing – and a table laden with delicious treats for breaks! We kids could help ourselves to wild blueberry pies which my grandma had made, topped with thick farm fresh cream poured over! Later, we would try to sleep – all the cousins spread out on mats on the basement floor. It seemed the parties went on all night but we were so happy and safe.

I taught myself to play guitar and soon was joining in the playing and singing. It was the warmest feeling of belonging; of communication with love. As an adult, joining in with other musicians is still such a delight. All we need is the key and someone to lead and everyone creates one sound, together. These musicians become like family as well, sound and rhythm a language we all understand. Whether one plays, or sings, or simply enjoys listening, music connects us all in a profound way – and connection to one another is something we all need.

Artist Talk & Virtual Vernissage: Wednesday December 1, 7:00pm-8:00pm. Artist Karen Haines will join us live via Zoom to talk about her installation. You can join us from the comfort of your home through a video link that can be accessed on your computer, tablet, or smartphone. Please email us at [email protected] and we will send you the link.

Contact the Gallery: Call 613-256-8033 or email [email protected] for queries, or visit our Virtual Gallery under “New Arrivals“.