Canadian artist Brian Lorimer has carved a unique niche for himself in the world of art. Drawing from the vast and varied Canadian landscapes, Lorimer's acrylic paintings are a testament to the country's natural beauty. Yet, what sets his work apart is not just the subject matter but the innovative fusion of traditional painting styles with modern techniques, a reflection of his past as a commercial artist.
Lorimer's journey in the commercial world, where he owned Lorimer Studios, a commercial set painting company, has significantly influenced his current artistic endeavours. The fast-paced, deadline-driven environment of commercial art, combined with the need for precision and adaptability, has equipped him with skills that he now seamlessly integrates into his landscape paintings.
Digital Art and New Media Influence
Having been exposed to the world of digital art and new media during his commercial art days, Lorimer has developed a keen sense of colour, contrast, and composition. Digital tools offer an almost infinite palette, allowing artists to experiment with hues and shades that might be challenging to achieve with traditional mediums. Lorimer's landscapes, while rooted in the familiar, often surprise the viewer with their intense, modern colours, reminiscent of digital art's vibrancy.
Echoes of Art Movements
Lorimer's work also resonates with traces of various art movements. The bold, non-naturalistic colours can remind one of Fauvism, while the emotional depth and intensity might evoke thoughts of Expressionism. Yet, the abstract quality of some of his pieces, where forms and colours meld into each other, can be likened to Abstract Expressionism.
A Contemporary Colorist
Perhaps the term "contemporary colorist" aptly describes Lorimer's style. He takes the familiar – the serene lakes, towering mountains, and sprawling forests of Canada – and infuses them with a modern twist. The landscapes, while recognizable, are interpreted through a lens tinted with intense modern colours, a nod to his background in digital art.
Brian Lorimer's paintings are a celebration of the old and the new. They pay homage to Canada's natural beauty while simultaneously embracing modern artistic techniques and styles. His journey from a commercial set painter to a renowned landscape artist is a testament to the endless possibilities that arise when one dares to merge the traditional with the contemporary.
