ARTIST STATEMENT

Shannon McManus’s abstract paintings depict visions of a natural world largely untouched by humankind.   They depict the alchemic reactions of stone, water, and earth; of decay and transformation.  They are derived from an animistic view of the earth and the universe.

McManus finds a spiritual and emotional outlet in the creation of paintings.  The works express a spectrum of emotions: sorrow, loss, and isolation.  Some reflect a connection to the natural world; others convey fear evoked by the mystery of human consciousness and the enormity of the universe.

For years, McManus dreamt of vivid and colourful paintings.  The dreams became more and more frequent and intense and only stopped when she began producing art. 

McManus has created four series of paintings: Stone and Bone, Germination, Magic Land and Migration.  All are interconnected. Her palette reflects the artist’s interest in Persian and Asian painting, Flemish masters and early 20th century illustration.  Initially, she wished to create modern paintings based on these historical works, but found true expression in abstraction.  McManus says she did not “find” her style; it found her.

She explores texture and shape and colour using acrylic paint on stone paper or canvas.  Her work consists of thin layers of liquid acrylic paint manipulated and, in places, removed in various ways.

Remaining true to high abstraction, she summons imagery to elicit impressions of caves, stone, fire, water, vegetation, and creature-like forms using pigments and a great deal of water, materials that are conducive to producing unusual effects.

Shannon McManus has exhibited in Toronto, Ontario and Mainland China. She has a psychology degree from Concordia University in Montreal and did the diploma programme at the Toronto School of Art.

CONTACT: srbmcmanus@gmail.com.