Grandiose is an exploration of the Grand River Watershed through the eyes of hometown artist Bill Hagan.  Capturing photographic images throughout the Grand River, Hagan uses these images as inspiration and stepping stones in the creation of his Contemporary Landscape Paintings. “The multi-lane and bypass highways that cut across our country have changed the perception of Canadian Landscapes,” states Hagan, “Focusing on these off the beaten path landscapes is my way of encouraging more of us to slow down and learn to appreciate where we live and what we have.” 

Grandiose is dedicated to capturing the spirit of the Grand, Nith, Speed, Conestogo, and Eramosa Rivers though contemporary painting on canvas, sparking interest in the river system while encouraging viewers to slow down and take the time to get involved in the exploration and conservation of this amazing ecosystem within our own backyard. The Photographic Studies along with Hagan’s Contemporary Paintings will be exhibited at the Edissi Fine Arts Gallery in Kitchener.  “Hagan’s paintings beckon us to get back in touch with nature,” states Gillian Flanagan, General Manager of Edissi Fine Arts, “as they capture not only the visual experience of the watershed but a visceral one as well.”

The Opening Reception for the exhibition is on Thursday September 9, 2010, from 7 – 9 p.m. at the Edissi Fine Arts Gallery on 907 Frederick Street in Kitchener, ON.  Additional Meet the Artist dates are scheduled for Friday September 10, from 12 – 8 p.m. and Saturday September 11, from 12 – 4 p.m. at the Edissi Fine Arts Gallery. The exhibition will run until October 1, 2010.  The show is free and open to the public.  For more information about the artist please visit: www.billhagan.ca.