Journey beneath the surface with the current art exhibit by artist Grace Marquez featured in the Joyner Room at the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre. Immersion will run to Sept. 29, with the opening reception coming up this Sunday, Sept. 8.
Marquez has painted all her life. While vacationing in the Philippines years ago, she says, she took a diving lesson, and was captivated by the underwater world — diving opened up a whole new world for her. As a technical diver, cave diver, and scuba instructor she has witnessed an alternate world beneath the water's surface.
Mesmerizing colours and the duality of the water's calm and energy bring focus to her art. She is inspired to explore different themes: the vibrant life that flourishes on coral reefs, shipwrecks as time capsules slowly reclaimed by nature, and underwater caves revealing layers of history. Marquez' medium is acrylic on canvas or paper. She builds up layers of glazes to create depth and texture. Some parts of her paintings are detailed and realistic, others are more abstract, reflecting the way our perceptions shift between clarity and mystery. She captures dynamic underwater details with vivid colours and intricate patterns. Her work celebrates optimism, exploration, and the joy of discovering both outer and inner worlds.
"My work isn't just about capturing what lies beneath the water,” says Marquez, “it's about the sense of wonder and excitement that comes with exploring the unknown. These paintings invite you to embrace your own adventures, and find your own connections."
As you explore her work, what draws you in? What do you see in these underwater landscapes that connect to your own experience? Whether you are looking out over a lake, or simply feeling the power of water, or the chaos of life, there’s a connection that transcends diving. There is also a connection of emotions and stories that we all carry with us. The transformative power of water can symbolize the essence of personal growth.
She says her work isn't just for divers, but for anyone who has ever felt the pull of the unknown, the curiosity of what lies beyond reach. In her work she captures this sense of wonder, along with the stories that unfold in the hidden corners of the underwater world.
Each piece of the exhibit is a journey into self-discovery. Reflecting on the profound impact of the underwater world, Marquez hopes to highlight the rewards of continuous learning and shared experiences, of overcoming fears and barriers, of expanding oneself through skill development and mindset evolution. Hopefully, the viewer will leave with a renewed sense of optimism, while reflecting on the power of self-awareness.
The public is invited to the opening reception this Sunday, Sept. 8 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre to meet the artist and experience her work firsthand. Artist's remarks will be delivered at 2:30 p.m. This event is generously supported by Château des Charmes, providing an assortment of fine wines.
Come and experience the transformative power of the underwater world.
