Joan Bontje,
A Fall Show ...'No Strings Attached'
Friends, family and invited guests attended a special showing of Joan's most recent works at her home in Ajax on September 15th, 2007.
At right, Joan stands in front of one of her paintings of Sunflowers just after it had sold.
Guests enjoyed looking at paintings on two floors of Joan's home and studio. The day was a beautiful sunny fall day, one of those that make you feel a little wistfully that summer is about to leave. The setting for the event created a gentle backdrop for the art; restful scenes of Joan's garden ushered you into the home she and her husband Brian share. You could see where Joan receives much of her inspiration, as the windows let in so much light green garden tranquility. Brian greeted guests as well and spoke of the many hours Joan had worked to put on such a show. Few realize the amount of hours and months required to create such a body of works. Joan is truly to be congratulated for digging into her depths and bringing soul to the surface for us to enjoy.
Guests were treated to an array of refreshments, both sweet and savoury and encouraged to relax awhile amongst the art. The atmosphere was relaxed and informal giving everyone who attended an interesting time talking about Joan's art and her painting methods and philosophies.
They say, 'art feeds the soul', and being among Joan's paintings and the beauty of her home and garden made you feel relaxed, inspired, and you came away with a sense of peacefulness. The theme, 'No Strings Attached' played out even in the atmosphere as well as the paintings themselves.
I encourage you to watch for Joan's next show, and read more about Joan on her website.
Joan standing in front of a watercolour of a house in her studio.
A few friends pose for pictures just before leaving the show.
A view from a window looking out on Joan's garden, a fantasy retreat, that inspires imagination.
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link back to Joan Bontje Feature Page
see Joan Bontje's website -