Two lenses come together for art show

Ray Thoms and Colette Thériault have much different lenses for looking at art.

He uses a camera and post-production techniques to create one-of-a-kind images, while she uses the lead of a pencil and the paint on a brush to produce lifelike images of pets and wildlife.

They do, however, share some characteristics that make their work stand out. Self-proclaimed perfectionists, both want to show off only the most outstanding work.

“I don't want anything out there that I can't say is what I want out there,” Thoms said. Thériault agreed, saying she and Thoms have been known to be “fussy” about what work the public sees.

As a longtime photographer, Thoms has worked with every film format. The move to digital was followed by hesitation, but it didn't take long for him to learn and love the magic of it.

“It has been a long learning curve with Photoshop, but I am now able to do what I used to dream about in the darkroom,” he said. “It has been truly a great time.”

He said his favourite part of photography is the process — from snapping an image to the final printing stage.

“I enjoy producing fine art giclée prints, as well as regular photographs,” he stated.

Thériault has also been at her craft for a number of years. Since childhood, she has enjoyed the outdoors and the natural world. Her interests led to a career in biology, with art on the back-burner.

In 2004, she decided to pursue art full time, and hasn't looked back.

From April 30 to May 19, Thoms and Thériault's joint collection of art will be on display at the Stopciati Gallery, located at 153 Applegrove St.
An opening reception is slated for May 5 from 1-4 p.m.

For more information about their works, visit raythoms.blogspot.com and colettetheriault.com. For more information about their show, phone the gallery at 705-673-4443.

Posted by Arron Pickard