Submitted by Max Himsl
In past articles, we have focused on the work performed by the board members in preparation for Art Farm or on features of the festival itself. It seems fitting to examine the artists behind this magnificent event to see what they create and why, for whom they create and when and where they get the nerve to show off like that. With these questions, and others equally penetrating and incisive, I approached Heather van der Breggen, the ideological mastermind of the Art Farm movement.
In person, she cuts a striking figure, an eclectic collage of gypsy clairvoyant, rural earth-mother and hard-nosed entrepreneur. One shrinks under the warm, artist’s gaze and feels awe fully vulnerable in the face of her friendly, disarming charm. “Who,” I ask, “is your target audience?”
Heather smiles and sips some hot herbal drink of suspicious origin, considering the question.
“Well, the answer is obvious. I’m surprised you needed to ask. Are you sure you’re a reporter? I want my work to be viewed by everyone. I enjoy looking at what I have painted and naturally expect the other five billion people on Earth to be equally appreciative.”
I loosen my collar at the sudden heat in the room and check my notes for the next question. “What is your favourite subject matter?”
Heather arches an eyebrow. “My favourite subject matter. Well, I take a lot of pleasure and satisfaction from painting things I can see. Around me are vast skies and endless landscapes peopled by dogs, cats, horses — and people — and these elements, individually or combined, form the basis of my art. On those occasions when I crave relief from the stark realities of life, I turn to free flowing colour and light of the abstract.”
“Where do you show it?”
“Oh well, where ever and whenever I can. I have an exhibition in the Allie Griffin as often as they will let me, every couple of years or so.
At other times, I cooperate with local businesses where art patrons are likely to gather, like Smaug’s Vape Shop and Tessa’s Salon in Weyburn and Calories in Saskatoon. People not comfortable viewing art in a public place are, of course, welcome to arrange discreet, private viewings at my studio.”
She starts and then smiles, slightly embarrassed. “And of course, it’s so obvious that I nearly forgot. I also show my work at the Utterly Amazing Don’t You Dare Miss It Because It’s The Very Last ART FARM V.”
“Why do you keep doing it?”
“Because I have to. I have always made art, for as long as I can remember and I expect I always will. In front of the easel I enter a contemplative trance and the act of putting paint to canvass becomes a spiritual expression. My emotional balance is restored, my sanity maintained and I have an attractive new vista to show the world in the bargain.”
“When do you talk about it?
“Always! In some form or other I always manage to sneak it into conversations, sometimes with startling results. I am aroused by the creative process and love to encourage others, especially those that feel they lack imagination or skill. If I have a show somewhere I am not the least reluctant to shamelessly self-promote to any and all I meet and no creature with ears will miss the news. You know I’ll be at Art Farm V, correct? You must come and visit. I have so much to show you.”
Art Farm V will be held on Saturday, June 10 at the van der Breggan farm from noon until 7 p.m. Admission is $4, with children ages six and under free.
