Bank Street Gallery
Try mixing a little chocolate with some rich coffee, add a little milky tea, pour in a twist of skinny-dipping in the Baltic Sea, a heavy sprinkling of children’s prose and a dash of world religions; slow cook for a few, well-travelled decades (a few, not many!) in a percussive, Danish stock, with a couple of feisty teenagers and a good measure of ginger cat and you’ll have a very fine Janice Kinnear. This Dundonian, now resident in Denmark, presents her first Scottish solo exhibition, in Kirriemuir. Her showcase brings to fruition a journey she has marched with her late mother, who died three years ago. Ill-health brought the family matriarch to sheltered housing here in Kirriemuir and so it brought Janice to these parts, too. Anyone who has witnessed dementia, will be interested in this show.
The collection is so clearly rooted in Kirriemuir, the much loved Wee Red Toon. Thrums has plainly wriggled its way under Kinnear’s skin too. This illustrator’s touch brings more than a mere representation of place. You cannot help but be prompted into thought by this work. Although many pieces are themed (“Peter Pan Walking” is a particularly delightful series), the work is, of itself, contemplative.
Kinnear’s technique is intriguing. Closer examination reveals an attention to detail. However, step away and your perception changes. Contemplation, quietude and time with the work seem to change even your assessment of the medium. The images and their construction trip your mind into a journey not anticipated.
There is a peacefulness about this exhibition. Perhaps this is because of the nature of its inspiration, the closing chapters of the artist’s mother’s life. But Kinnear’s pallet, too, slows down the observer. In this crazy, crazy world, we all need a time for contemplation and this show definitely justifies a moment for that essential indulgence.
janice kinnear’s show runs from 1st July 2015 to 9th August 2015