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Parkdale Gallery reflects James Robinson’s vision for an artistic community. More than an art gallery, the venue welcomes a community of creative peoples and celebrates diverse artistic passions. The gallery reflects both his easy going personality and creative fearlessness. There is an art movement happening at Parkdale Gallery which defies traditional definition.
Artists that have not been well served by an ever increasing elitist art community are drawn to the venue. At Parkdale Gallery they find their community and support for their work. They find a partner that works with and for them. Artists from near and far, from all backgrounds are invited to submit their works for consideration. New artists that are shown for the first time in a gallery are welcomed by established artists.
Who are the artists and sculptors featured at Parkdale Gallery? All have developed unique personal styles, substantial portfolios, fortitude to dismiss the mainstream and all have pursued their passions. That is where the similarities end. Techniques, subject matters, media, ethnicity, and world views, all vary. The result is a gallery showcase of strongly divergent works.
James is one such artist. He has been a working artist for over 20 years and is well studied in the arts. Early in his career he rebelled against the norms of the traditional art community and left his studies to join a small group of avant-garde artists in Montreal. Working with other underground artists, he was free to develop a style that combines traditional brush work with modern air brush techniques. The result is a finely defined hyper realism. He continues to paint in his studio in the gallery.
Living in Ottawa’s self acclaimed QUAD artist district, James was one of the many artists, actors, musicians and writers who had chosen Hintonburg to make their home. This working class downtown neighbourhood with its older homes, treed streets and community amenities was until the last few years a well kept secret. Now it has been acclaimed as Canada’s hottest neighbourhood.
As a member of the Hintonburg Arts Committee, James was involved in the community arts movement early on. As art galleries started to pop up in the neighbourhood, he could not find that out of the way, trendy art gallery that suited his needs as an artist. You know that place where you can find that type of art that rocks you. Instead it seemed that all the local galleries where following the same old formulas, a monthly themed show and showcasing what he calls “the usual suspects”.
James was inspired to open Parkdale Gallery to fulfill the needs of artists like him and to create an artistic venue that respects the quality of the artwork. The result is a gallery experience unique in Ottawa. On most days you will find that Parkdale Gallery is home to more than a hundred works from a dozen or more artists and sculptors. This alternative art gallery features original paintings and one of a kind sculptures from near and far.
James continues to support the community by sponsoring charity events at the gallery. To learn more about these events, visit our Giving page.
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