Kari Duke

Kari Duke's work presents viewers with surprising subject matter, evoking a sense of stillness and silence in contemplation of the simplicity and unexpected loveliness of back alleys.

Duke's work maintains a certain air of sentimentality reminiscent of a simpler, bygone era. The focus of the artist's work, these peaceful, serene unpopulated scenes, draw viewers into the artist's curiosity for an uncomplicated representation of everyday life. Enamoured with the play of light and reflections in partially shaded, mid-season suburban lanes, Duke celebrates the intrinsic allure of naked trees, deep snow and reflective surfaces with a romantic air, intermittently subdued colour palette and the brilliance of an unencumbered, azure blue sky. The realism of Duke's world is as comforting and charming as the sense of solitude each piece induces, painted in a manner that is all at once poised, refreshing and modest. These elegies to tranquillity are delightful ruminations on an easy appreciation for conventional moments.