Bold Horizons & Cozy Threads: A Celebration of Colour

A solo exhibition by Lisa Leskien that brings together two worlds that feel both different and deeply connected. Lisa pairs her colourful landscapes of Frontenac Park with hand-knit socks that hold a sense of warmth, comfort, and memory.

Overview

On view June 3 - 28 in the Joyner Gallery. Join us for a closing reception on Sunday, June 28, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 pm—meet the artist, enjoy refreshments, and connect with others. Remarks at 2:30 pm.

Artist Statement
In my latest series of acrylic and oil paintings, I explore the tension between the intimate and the expansive, using two distinct yet interconnected subjects: the humble sock and the breathtaking landscapes of Frontenac Park in my hometown of Sydenham, Ontario.

The sock, often overlooked and mundane, serves as a symbol of comfort, personal history – the socks which inspired the series are hand knit by my daughter, and the quiet moments of everyday life. Through my sock paintings, I seek to elevate this simple object, examining its textures, folds, and colors as a reflection of the intimate experiences that define us. Each brushstroke is a meditation on the small, private details that make up our lives, allowing these familiar objects to take on new significance.

In contrast, my paintings of Frontenac Park invite the viewer into vast, expansive landscapes where nature's raw beauty unfolds. Through bold compositions and layered colors, I capture the energy of the park's untamed wilderness – its towering trees, still waters, and shifting light. These works are a celebration of nature's inherent cycles and contrasts, where every detail, whether large or small, is in harmonious balance with the greater whole.

Together, these two subjects create a dialogue between personal introspection and the broader forces of nature, where the delicate texture of a sock can coexist with the grandeur of the natural world. This series is an exploration of how the small and the vast, the domestic and the wild, are inextricably linked, inviting viewers to consider the layers of beauty and meaning in both our personal lives and the world around us.