The Art of Leona Olausen: Exploring the Space Between

Leona Olausen’s abstract paintings are a testament to the power of simplicity and the beauty of the everyday. Her unique approach to art-making, which combines collage, water-based media, and acrylic, creates a distinctive visual language that invites the viewer to explore the space between.

The Inspiration Behind Space Between

Olausen’s inspiration for the exhibition comes from the idea of the space between things. This concept is not just limited to physical spaces, but also extends to the emotional and psychological spaces that we occupy. The artist’s goal is to create a sense of tension and balance in her work, by juxtaposing different textures, colors, and forms.

However, after being exposed to the Indigenous art movement, she began to incorporate Indigenous themes and imagery into her work.

The Early Years

Olausen’s early life was marked by a strong connection to her Métis heritage. Growing up in Flin Flon, Manitoba, she was surrounded by the rich cultural traditions of her community. Her parents, who were both Métis, instilled in her a deep appreciation for the history and customs of their people. Her parents encouraged her to explore her Métis identity through art, providing her with materials and resources to express herself creatively.

The Influence of Indigenous Art

In the 1960s, Olausen moved to Medicine Hat, a city in southern Alberta, where she was exposed to the Indigenous art movement.

She was inspired by the vastness of the landscape and the freedom of the open space. The artist’s husband had passed away, and she was struggling to cope with the loss. She found solace in the vastness of the landscape and the freedom of the abstraction.

The Turning Point

The artist’s life was forever changed after her husband’s passing. The loss of her partner and confidant left her feeling lost and uncertain about her future. However, this difficult time also sparked a creative transformation within her. As she navigated the challenges of grief, she began to explore new ways of expressing herself through art.

The artist’s fascination with the human condition and the world around her has led to the development of a unique style that is both introspective and visually striking.

The Evolution of Olausen’s Artistic Voice

Olausen’s artistic journey began with collage, a medium that allowed her to experiment with different textures and materials. However, as she delved deeper into the world of art, she discovered the freedom and versatility of acrylic, water-based drawings, and pencil scribblings.

Space Between is open to the public until March 25.