Drawing on Multilayered Memories

Brenda Draney’s work explores the complex nature of intimacy. Referencing her own memories and experiences, the Canadian artist examines the layered meanings embedded in everyday motifs and situations. The cumulative portrait that emerges references a collective self that encompasses not only her own experience but that of past generations and current community members. However, instead of simply reproducing these elements, she is more interested in addressing how their meanings can shift when filtered through individual interpretation. By deliberately leaving blank spaces in her paintings, Draney leaves room for viewers to place their own narrative within her imaginary spaces and to connect to the wide range of emotions the artist subtly invokes.

This richly illustrated catalogue—published in conjunction with Draney’s solo exhibition organized by The Power Plant Art Gallery in Toronto—features a selection of existing and newly commissioned works and original contributions from Canadian scholars and writers.