Local, and internationally celebrated sculptor Jock Hildebrand makes a splash as he dives back into the art of watercolours, the medium that first launched his artistic career.
Four decades ago, during an exhibition at the Simon Fraser University Art Gallery, the late Dr. Edward Gibson who was at that time the gallery’s director, proclaimed Hildebrand to be one of the top three watercolourists on the west coast, says a press release for the new show. Just as his acclaim was rising he switched mediums to try his hand at sculpting and he became known worldwide for his monumental public sculptures as he left his his mark on urban landscapes across every continent with the exception of Australia.
After more than 40 years of focusing on large scale work, Hildebrand is reconnecting with his roots. His new watercolours, which are describes as both bold and expressive with compositions that border on abstract expressionism, can currently be viewed inside his Shibui Fine Art Gallery located in Maple Bay.
“I’m so surprised at how easy it was to pick up the medium after such a long hiatus,” said Hildebrand. “It’s a bit like riding a bicycle. And honestly, I think the contemporary watercolours I’m doing now are superior to the ones that originally brought me recognition.”
