A new series of paintings by Nova Scotia artist Jazz Keillor (previously shown here). “Paradise,” recently exhibited at the Katzman Art Project, explores the invisible walls that delineate our collective conception of wilderness. Reflecting on how outdoor experiences can bring about a sense of joy, Keller considers the contradictory frameworks that pave the way for such enjoyment:
“The word paradise can be traced back to the Old Persian word Pairidaeza, which refers to a walled enclosure, playground, or garden. When Banff National Park was established in 1887, the area was officially designated a “pleasure place,” and the term Used to describe that part of an English garden dedicated to the enjoyment of its owner. Jon Muir once referred to the entire North American continent as a wild garden over the past 150 years. What does it mean that this “garden” has been stolen, divided and sold over the years as a quintessential national pastime?”
