Tidal Pool, felt and drift wood, 16 x 21, Trading House, Haida Gwaii Museum.

This work is an early example of a series of images I am creating using felting as an alternative to painting. These designs will play with the idea of a western artist’s use of polymer emulsion paint (acrylic) to depict beautifully idealized nature scenes and cautionary but aesthetic images of climate destruction. What does this say about a “two-eyed” relational painting practice as both an educator and researcher? Can shifting perspectives lead to new ways of seeing and problem solving? 

Walking in our Footsteps, acrylic on plaster, 10 x 12 

This high relief painting speaks to the relational and connective energy of life below the feet. The minute we step into the forest, thread-like hyphae (mycelium) sense our presence and send this information through mycorrhizal networks to the plants and trees. 

16 x 20. watercolour, 2017.

This image was inspired by an Artist in Residence trip to Gwaii Haanas in the Summer of 2017. Leaning over the boat, I was mesmerized by a giant red anemone glowing below the shimmering surface. There is a need to reacquaint myself with this thing over and over -a desire to know and understand. I cannot get there, but I am close. Every attempt falls short but the encounter is magical.

This watercolour image is inspired by a visit to the west coast of Haida Gwaii. It depicts the interconnection between animal and plant and the interesting transition from high tide to low. Tidal creatures adapt to this constant change and the seconds of transition are fascinating. By sitting and observing, one experiences a meditative moment when time is measured by the dropping water level.

“Artist and Teacher Sheila Karrow has a strong passion for creating art. On tonight’s Open Connection Sarah Komadina has the chance to meet with Karrow at the Terrace Art Gallery.”

Detail of Nebula Anemone

Sacrifice
16 x 20
Acrylic on canvas
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Liquid Skin was painted a few years ago after a low tide observation. Sketches and watercolour studies sourced this acrylic painting. I was interested in capturing the moving and sensual kelp by comparing it to human flesh and form.