GRAHAM FORSYTHE: "Superlative Talent -- A Legacy," April 27 to May 11, 2013, Diana Paul Galleries, Calgary, AB

GRAHAM FORSYTHE : Superlative Talent -- A Legacy

April 27 to May 11, 2013

Diana Paul Galleries, Calgary , AB

By Dina O'Meara

Graham Forsythe’s passion for life is reflected in his vibrant paintings, colourful and impressionistic scenes by a man who had been legally blind for more than half his life. The Victoria-based artist, who died last year, embraced painting after eye surgery in 1991 opened a new world of colour. He had seen only shadows and shades of grey from birth. Excited by his new vision, Forsythe dedicated himself to painting. Nina Rogers, the owner of Diana Paul Galleries, says the Irish-born Forsythe embraced abstract art, exploring its colour and composition as a basis for more representational work. His show this spring includes 33 of his last pieces. “The paintings are abstract as a group and are outside of his normal work,” says Rogers. “They are amazing and lively – he was painting so well, hitting his stride as an artist.” In a statement about his work, Forsythe noted his interest in recording what he saw. “If I can unveil the essence of what I see into my paintings, they will transcend mere decoration and take on a life of their own.”