A summer safari…
…indoors?
At the Chez Lucien, no less?
Yes – thanks to talented young visual artist Julia Cross, whose exhibit, Tender Thorn, is gracing that venerable institution’s walls from now till September 4.
The show, watercolours of animals in a state of metamorphosis, advocates a Rumi-esque philosophy: "The animal and plant kingdom is a great reminder of the impermanence of the world. Everything will die and continue to change form, which is what makes it so lovely to be a part of," explains the blonde, wide-eyed Cross.
And indeed, the joys and marvel of being able to observe earth’s ever-changing menagerie – from cocooning insects to aging armadillos – veritably beams from Cross’ work. Her detailed sketches, set against swaths of soothing boldness (with a few metallic highlights thrown in here and there,) bring the zoologist and the romantic (and occasionally, the tragedian) together in a spirited duality.
It's a reflection of an artistic career itself in the stages of transition, as the Ottawa-based Cross, a developmental services worker by day, makes her biggest artistic statement to date. "The alchemy of a changing life is the only truth," she adds, again quoting Rumi.
So, skip the petting zoos and the field trips this summer. Instead, check out Cross’ colourful creatures at the Chez Lucien.
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