Cybele Ironside’s painting, Quiet Pond

Cybele Ironside is one of the many artists whose art graces the walls of the new Joseph & Rosalie Segal & Family Health Centre.  As part of VCH and VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation’s effort to create a healing and welcoming environment for patients with mental illnesses and their families, art enhances the walls of the Centre. Here, Cybele Ironside discusses her background as one of the featured artists and her perspective on her painting, Quiet Pond.

How did you get started as an artist?

I was always a creative child which led me to study drawing and painting in my early twenties. I became serious about my practice in my early 30’s after attending The Art Students League of New York. My career really took off after returning to Vancouver in 2003 and participating in various events out of my studio at 1000 Parker Street Studios in Vancouver.

What inspires your work?

I‘m inspired by dramatic weather changes, particularly the play of light in the landscape. I try to distill both the inviting and haunting aspects of the BC landscape.

Tell me about the piece youre creating for the Joseph & Rosalie Segal & Family Health Centre?

It’s a 44 x 48 oil painting on panel. This particular painting is based on the play of light on air and water in a pond based theme. I have used a layering of glazes technique that I have developed over several years in which abstraction allows feeling to override outward form.

How does it speak to mental health?

My wish is that the piece will provide a moment of peace and tranquility, and renewal of energy. I ultimately want my paintings to have a calming meditative effect on it’s viewers.

What is your hope for the Joseph and Rosalie Segal & Family Health Centre as a healing space and how do you hope your piece will inspire the people who access services at the Centre and their family members?

My hope is that it will be a warm and inviting place where both patients and visitors will feel welcome.