About
Artist Biography
Jennifer Prevost's artistic journey ignited during her childhood, where she fearlessly explored various mediums. Graduating from high school, she earned a coveted spot in the Bachelor of Fine Arts program at Queens University, Kingston, Canada. Under the guidance of accomplished mentors like Carl Heywood, Otis Tamasauskas, Dan Oxley, and Jan Winton, she delved into litho stone printmaking, sculpting with reclaimed materials, and discovered her enduring passion for oil painting.
Jennifer's artistic focus centers on the breathtaking natural and urban Canadian landscape, a theme she has embraced throughout her career. Infused with abstract patterns, captivating color combinations, and unique textures, the Canadian scenery serves as an everlasting wellspring of inspiration. Frequently found exploring the Gatineau hills or the banks of the Ottawa River with her camera and ukulele in hand, Jennifer seeks the perfect sunset or the poetry in snow patterns.
Discover Jennifer Prevost's evocative works at local Ottawa art shows, including The New Art Festival, Art in the Park, Art in Strathcona, and other exhibitions. Her art is a testament to her lifelong connection with the raw beauty of the Canadian landscape and local landmarks in Ottawa, inviting viewers to share in the enchantment of her creative exploration.
EDUCATION
Brand Management Graduate Certificate (2015-2016)
Algonquin College
Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A) Hours, Fine and Studio Arts (2005-2009)
Queens University
AWARDS
Ottawa’s Best Visual Art Artist 2022, Faces Magazine
Artist Statement
In the moments between dusk and darkness, a transformation sweeps over Ottawa, igniting the city with an ethereal energy. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky becomes a canvas, awash with a mesmerizing array of hues, casting an enchanting spell. This is a time of transition and anticipation, as a long day comes to a close and the night is fast approaching. Change is in the air, a shifting of gears as the city sheds the cares of the day. In these twilight hours, the city reveals its most captivating visage—a spectacle of light and shadow, texture and tone. As the lights glow throughout the city, from the tranquil waters of the canal to the pulsating heart of the downtown core, there is a magical rhythm that guides the eye, leading it along winding pathways and through the city streets. There is a romance to this hour, an excitement and beauty that is unparalleled. Bathed in the soft glow of streetlights and the shimmering radiance of an epic sunset above, the ordinary is transformed into the extraordinary.
As an artist, I am drawn to these fleeting moments of transition, to the interplay of light and shadow, color and form. In my latest series, "Nightfall in the Capital," I seek to capture the essence of this magical hour, to distill its beauty into paint and canvas. Through bold strokes and vibrant hues, my goal is to convey the sense of wonder and awe that pervades the evening urban landscape—a tribute to the most beautiful city in the country, and the endless inspiration it provides.
Within this series, I endeavor to capture not only the physicality of Ottawa but also its spirit—the palpable energy that pulsates through its streets long after the sun has set. From the stately grandeur of Parliament buildings to the cozy intimacy of local restaurants, each painting serves as a narrative tableau, weaving together the stories of its inhabitants and the city itself. The nuances within a scene captivate me; they hint at untold stories—a couple savoring a meal on a patio within the Byward Market, boats resting in the Rideau Canal, whispering tales of distant journeys. It thrills me when viewers perceive the city anew or are enchanted by a fresh perspective on familiar landmarks.
Central to my portrayal of Ottawa at night are the vivid sunsets that punctuate the skyline, infusing the scenes with an array of colors and emotions. These fleeting moments of transition between day and night serve as a metaphor for the ebb and flow of life—a reminder of the cyclical nature of existence and the inherent beauty found in change. Sunsets, for me, represent more than just a spectacle of nature; they are a source of solace and inspiration, grounding me amidst the chaos of modern life.
In terms of mood, my paintings oscillate between romanticism and excitement, mirroring the spectrum of emotions evoked by the city at night. Through the use of impasto application and bold color palettes, I strive to infuse each brushstroke with vitality and movement, creating a sense of vitality that echoes the rhythm of urban life.
Drawing inspiration from the style of Impressionism, my artistic style is influenced by the luminous landscapes of Monet and the vibrant color palette of van Gogh. Like the impressionists before me, I seek to capture the ephemeral quality of light and the ever-changing beauty of the natural world. In essence, my art is a reflection of my deep-seated connection to Ottawa—a celebration of its diversity, its vibrancy, and its enduring spirit.