Appetizers

In gustatory terms, appetizers are meant to instigate moments of community - an excuse for gathering and conversation, as well as a connection between people, geographies, and time. These paintings were created in the early months of a global pandemic at a time when we were unable to gather or share a meal. Inspiration was drawn from childhood spent on my family farm and the dishes that were lovingly prepared by my mother and grandmother to feed the masses.

For individuals unfamiliar with prairie food culture, this imagery may read as pure graphic motif, however a trained eye will note the presence of devilled eggs, jellied salad, and pickled platters. The designs reference both Abstract Expressionist painting movements, as well as the retro tile, linoleum, and textile patterns present in my grandparents’ home.

The works were acquired in 2024 by the SK Arts for their provincial collection.

“Appetizers,” installation view, Neutral Ground, Regina, SK, 2020. Acrylic on wood. Photography by Daniel Paquet