With Valentine’s Day less than a month away, I’ve included the subject of romance in my exhibit at the Orange Art Gallery in February. Afterall, one of life’s simple pleasures are those beautiful, spontaneous, heartfelt romantic gestures that make you fall in love with your partner all over again.

The modern St. Valentine’s Day celebrations are said to have been derived from both ancient Christian and Roman tradition. As per one legend, the holiday originated from the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalis/Lupercalia, a fertility celebration that was observed annually on February 15. But the rise of Christianity in Europe saw many pagan holidays being renamed and dedicated to early Christian martyrs. Lupercalia was no exception. In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius turned Lupercalia into a Christian feast day and set its observance a day earlier, on February 14. He proclaimed February 14 to be the feast day in honor of Saint Valentine, a Roman martyr who lived in the 3rd century. It is this St. Valentine whom the modern Valentine’s Day honours.

For the exhibit I’ve created five sculptures that explore the topic of love and romance, from young, new love to a nostalgic look back at what was once a great love.

For more information on the exhibit “Life’s Simple Pleasures” please visit the gallery’s website at http://www.orangeartgallery.ca

Photos

• Canoedelling
• The Anniversary Dance
• Love Letters