When Art Gallery Director Dr. Josie Mills asked me if I wanted to write something for the Lasting Images page of the Legend on the occasion of my retirement, I gladly grasped the opportunity to showcase my favourite works of art in the University's Art Collection.
During my career as registrar for the art collection, so many great works of art have passed through my hands, but two small paintings held my attention over the years – it was love at first sight, and I still would like to take them home.
Why these two? First of all, they are beautifully painted, with not a brushstroke out of place. Also, there may be some nostalgia at play. The flower still life by F.S. Challener (1869-1959) is a wee little painting but packs a lot of attitude. Its dramatic chiaroscuro brings out the flowers to perfection, reminding me of the Dutch 17th century flower still lives of Bosschaert (but painted with the 'joi de vivre' of Frans Hals!).
The Impressionist landscape by F.H. Brigden (1871-1956), is atmospheric and full of the lush greens and flowering trees of spring. It evokes the rolling hills of Limburg and Bohemia that I know so well. These are my "feel good" paintings.
Art and nature are my two passions. I have been very lucky to find both in Lethbridge, and I hope that I'll be able to indulge in both in the years to come.
Thank you, U of L, for a swell time!
Lucie Linhart
For a full look at the January issue of the Legend in a flipbook format, follow this link.