Red Deer MAG: House Inspiring Peace – a spiritual shelter
For over two decades, Amy Loewan, RCA, has been exploring powerful visual metaphors of peace and harmony. In her exhibition, House Inspiring Peace, on display at the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery (MAG) from September 1, 2018 to November 18, 2018, Amy invites viewers to contemplate on the meaning of peace and what they can do to make this world a better place.
The feature exhibit of this installation is a large sculptural work in the image of a seemingly simple and iconic house. On closer examination and in entering the interior of the artwork, visitors will experience its calculated complexity in aesthetic and in form. House is where home is. The image of house serves as a metaphor for the foundation of peace. As the ancient Chinese sage Lao Tzu of 6th century BCE wisely observed: “If there is to be peace in the world………… there must ultimately be peace in the home and peace in the heart.”
“It seems like every day we are bombarded with news stories about conflict and violence,” says Lorna Johnson, Executive Director. “Amy Loewen’s House Inspiring Peace is an invitation to our visitors to put their attention on the possibility of peace. Her work encourages viewers to find peace within themselves, as a way of radiating peace outward, from the self, into the home, into the community and out into the wide world.”
Surrounding the house structure, around the perimeter of the gallery, an open series of watercolours The Contemplations will be displayed on the gallery walls. In an ethereal dialogue of colour, light and form, these abstract paintings together with the House gently guide viewers into a meditative and spiritual experience.
