About Petra Zantingh
I am a visual artist inspired by the contrast between urban and natural landscapes, deeply influenced by the geography and spirit of my home in Hamilton, Ontario. Since 2004, I have been exhibiting my paintings. Currently, my interests focus on environmental awareness as it relates to landscapes, vegetation, trees, and the connection between art and spirituality.
Using art-making as a way of interpreting what I see, I want to draw others into a visual conversation with the paintings. From childhood, I knew that the visual arts, whether it be painting, illustration or design would play an important role.
I have a diploma in graphic design and fashion illustration from Fanshawe College, a BFA in Fine Art and an MA in Art Education from Concordia University in Montreal. My career (1980-2002) as a graphic designer and art director was in print publications and newspaper design with a special interest in typography. Since 2002, I have taught courses in drawing, painting, and design as an adjunct professor in art and education at Redeemer University, Riverwood Centre, and as a volunteer art teacher at InDwell. I have led numerous workshops and have been exhibiting paintings since 2004.
Artist Statement
Is there a line between heaven and earth? During my artist residency in France earlier this year, I found myself captivated by the crisp edges of the horizon lines, where the earth meets the sky. In stark contrast, the Canadian horizons I admire from my escarpment view in Hamilton tend to appear blurred and murky. This contrast drives my exploration of the space between heaven and earth—an evocative journey that uncovers a deep connection to place. What makes these locations truly compelling is their rich history and the countless lives that inhabited these landscapes.
My painting process is a deeply felt response to these themes, where I apply pigment and layering techniques to evoke emotion. By often using my hands to paint, I strive to capture the very essence of these ideas. Each piece, on custom-made cradled wood panels, is a testament to this exploration, blending paint, ink, graphite, oil sticks, and gold leaf. Through my work, I invite you to join me in contemplating the beauty and history that connect us all.
As an artist, I am drawn to the enigmatic yet physical nature of skies, clouds, landscapes, flowers, seeds, trees, roots, and branches, which are common subjects in my work. I create paintings on wood panels using ink, water-soluble graphite, paint and oil sticks. The process relies on the delicate relationship between water and pigment, requiring patient manipulation to achieve transparent layers that evoke realism and subtle nuances.
I view vegetation as a symbol of our mortality, reminding us that life is short. As I enter my third stage of life, I find myself contemplating this more often. Flowers symbolize the cyclical nature of creation and serve as a reminder not to worry too much, drawing inspiration from a biblical text about the lilies of the field.
My work is inspired by nature, and I often paint trees, vegetation, and flowers. The literary works of Dutch Catholic priest Henri Nouwen and American poet Mary Oliver inspire me, particularly their discussions of life's contradictions and finding joy in transitions. For instance, Nouwen's quote "Be surprised by joy, be surprised by the little flower that shows its beauty in the midst of a barren desert, and be surprised by the immense healing power that keeps bursting forth like springs of fresh water from the depth of our pain" resonates with me.
Artists Residency
La Maison de Beaumont, Beaumont-de-Pertuis, France
Makumba Farm, Chipembi, Zambia (self-directed)
Awards
2nd place winner of Battle of the Brushes 2019, Re-Create Art Studio
The Canadian Association for the Study of Women and Education (CASWE/ACÉFÉ)
Graduate Student Award, 2014