Powell River painter Meghan Hildebrand recently returned from Victoria where she delivered paintings for her second solo show in only five months. An internationally recognized artist with more than 40 solo shows to her name, Hildebrand’s new collection, Lorafauna, opens on Thursday, October 14, at Madrona Gallery. The gallery, which exhibits her work regularly, is located at 606 View Street in Victoria.
What does Lorafauna mean?
I made up the word Lorafauna, drawn from flora and fauna, to mean something like beautiful creatures. In the new work, I combined aspects of flora and fauna; for example, towering trees made up of magical beings such as wizards and Sasquatch. There are chattering birds and fruit trees full of grumpy-faced fruit looking back at you.
How would you describe the show?
Half of the show, the acrylic pieces, are punchy, bright and fun; those are more graphic than previous works. The watercolour paintings that make up the rest of the show are more restful and dreamy, and are also more directly influenced by my surroundings. They almost look like places around Powell River, full of trees, boats and industry, with fairytale-like narratives.
How many pieces are in the new collection?
There are 20 new paintings. Half are acrylic on wood and half are watercolours.
Are you excited to use watercolours?
Watercolours are a refreshing shift. They are fresh and immediate and the process starts with drawing, which I really love doing. Watercolours were actually my first medium; the first paintings I sold were watercolours I painted as a teenager.
Did this show come together quickly for you?
Not really. Painting a series over the summer was challenging with all the distractions. The last month was a solid working spell and I managed to get the work done in time for early delivery, which is a relief for me and for my gallery.
For more information, go to meghanhildebrand.com.Â
