Canadian artist Stanley Wany was in Townsville last week to open a new exhibition debuting at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery.
In the exhibition, titled Inwards, the illustrator goes beyond his roots as a graphic novelist in his exploration of life through image in this series of works debuting at Perc Tucker.
Beyond writing and illustrating graphic novels, Stanley’s practice also includes experimentation in painting, pen and ink, and digital collage. His work, slowly uncoiling across the pages like smoke, often overlays images, morphing and shifting into the next form.
Stanley said one if his biggest influences is his personal battle with insomnia.
“After being awake for so long, the line between reality and imagination starts to fade. Eventually, the unconscious mind takes over reality and consciousness slips into the background,”said Stanley.
“My aim is not to be the storyteller, but merely the one who assembles the elements for people to tell their own stories, if they choose to do so.”
Townsville Mayor Jenny Hill said welcoming an artist from North America to exhibit in Townsville helped cement the city’s reputation as the arts capital of Northern Australia.
“Council’s new Art Strategy aims to attract even more international artists to Townsville to elevate our position as a national art hub. We are very happy to welcome Stanley Wany to our city and host his work at Perc Tucker Gallery,” Cr Hill said.
“Having Stanley not only exhibit his work here but to also fly over and visit Townsville is fantastic.”
Culture and Community Development Committee Chairperson, Councillor Colleen Doyle, said this was an exhibition that couldn’t be missed.
“This is Stanley’s first exhibition showing in Australia, and these works of art are incredibly intricate,” Cr Doyle said.
“Many of the pieces are more than 2m long and made with ink on paper. I’m sure for some people they’ll evoke an emotional response.”
Inwards will be exhibited from 14 February to 29 March at Perc Tucker Regional Gallery.
