maryanne wettlaufer

My lifelong approach to art-making has always been led by a desire to adventure into nature. These explorations allow me to confront infinite unexpected moments in the natural world, transforming wild supernatural into pure inspiration for my paintings.

As a painter, I push beyond the photographic description of a scene to include a glimpse of the emotion that connects me to a place. My paintings express the intangible soul stirring moments which define a vision of the scene while remaining representational enough to invite the viewer to consider their own journey to the place.

In 2024 I finally settled into my new studio space. It took two years to build, and even though it is a very basic space, it feels like the biggest work of art I have ever created.

Over the past 20 years living on the remote archipelago of Haida Gwaii, I have made many trips to mainland British Columbia for things like building supplies, art exhibits, and also medical appointments. The trip begins with a 2 hour drive from Masset south to the ferry landing in Skidegate, 8 hour ferry ride to Prince Rupert and then an absolutely stunning 2 hour drive to Terrace. 

I have decided the next big project I will work towards completing is an exhibition of paintings that visually describe the north end of Haida Gwaii, and the journey all the way to Terrace... "TOW HILL TO TERRACE".