Pioneer Staff
Canadian teenagers are faced with no shortage of lifes challenges, and
because many of their struggles revolve around topics which can be taboo,
discussion is often avoided.
Artist Robyn Oliver, who also teaches art at David Thompson Secondary School, has taken on such issues head through a series of paintings, which are on display at Pynelogs Cultural Centre until Monday, September 1st.
The reason I painted this particular series is because its stuff that we dont normally talk about in society, she told The Pioneer. So I was looking for an avenue to start some conversation.
Subjects range from prominent teen issues such as bullying and pregnancy, and also delve into personal challenges, many stemming from mental
illness.
Even if its not something one
particular teen is going through, if its a part of their peer group, they could be facing those same issues every day.
As a high school teacher, Ms. Oliver candidly observes her subjects as they go about their daily lives.
Because of the sometimes dark
nature of a students reality, and to
protect individual identity, origami was used to represent the individual student subjects of Ms. Olivers art. The folded paper art form can still create an
emotion, but also distance from the subject, she said.
The series at Pynelogs will come to an end following the Labour Day weekend after two weeks on display.
Once the series is finished its
display at Pynelogs, Rocky River Grill will showcase some of the items in its dining room.