This ongoing series refers to the coined term, ‘site-specific’, a term used when artwork responds, and has a direct correlation, to a specific location, putting emphasis on our relationship to the land and its particular context. SIGHT-specific layers the focus of the land with challenging our dominant reliance on vision in visual spaces. Artworks in the series explore the possibilities of embossed surfaces, fragrant scents, and audio recorded documentation in collaboration with two-dimensional surfaces, such as painting and print – mediums that are often prohibited to touch – to enable an accessible, immersive experience.

The collection of artworks are like diary entries of daily observations from both Brouwer’s home region and an artist residency in France at NG Art Creative Residency. Brouwer’s attention to land and culture in both locations illustrates the need to recognize the importance of land as a lifestyle as evident in the philosophy of the French term ‘terroir’. The painted prints have been intentionally abstracted and blurred with some areas missing due to the nature of the monotype technique, challenging the viewer to imagine the completed landscape through touch and description. These artworks are paired with audio recordings of image descriptions and sounds found in the represented location, which are activated when touched. This interactive collection of land portraits reminds us to be intentionally present to all our senses in natural spaces, to practice gratitude of said spaces amidst a global climate crisis, and to develop a stronger bond to the Canadian landscape as an integral part of life.

 

CANADA

 

 

FRANCE

 

The artist gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Region of Waterloo Arts Fund and Canada Council for the Arts.