NFLD artisit in TO- Jim Maunder presents Yeild May 6, 2006

Well known Newfoundland artist Jim Maunder will be visiting Toronto to launch his new body of work entitled YEILD at the DeLeon White Gallery, Queen Street West. Yield is a scupltural exploration of the ethical and ecological dilemmas posed by bio-engineering. Jim Maunder's recent body of work takes us into an ambiguous world of altered, chemical forms. They are sprouts, pods and bulbs- bursting forth with voluptuous foam or gaping with wounds stitched up by railway spikes. These seem radical interventions of metal upon wood and science upon nature. The sculptures speak to the artist's concerns with the impact of bioengineering and the precarious balance of the natural environment. Yet there is a curious reciprocity between the materials that suggest an ultimately complementary relationship. There is more intimacy between the rusted metal bases and the organic wood forms than we would expect. Jim Maunder asserts "inevitably, nature will have its way." His perspective acknowledges both the environmentalist's dire warnings and the optimism of the dandelion that defies concrete's domination. The sculpture is beautifully ominous. Compelling. Surfaces of erosion are replete with color and texture. Metal sheets are embroidered with scars; concrete slabs are marked with the tallies of unknown events. These are objects that despite being altered possess a life giving grace. The works in Yield are consistent with Maunder's previous work although the style and media have varied. "I often address global concerns in a local context" says Maunder. Based in Newfoundland and coming from a family of scientists, he has had a front row seat of the impact of technology on the cod fishery, and our dependency on oil. His work, past and present, explores the symbiotic relationship we share with nature. Jim Maunder is based in St. John's, NL. In addition to his studio practice in cast bronze, ceramic and welded metals he is noted for his public commissions in outdoor spaces. - Gloria Hickey curatorOpening on Saturday May 6, 2006 from 2 - 5 with artist in attendence, the show runs through until June 4.2006. Jim will be in Toronto May 3 through May 10. Interviews can be arranged by calling 709-690-9728 or by emailing [email protected]

Official Website: http://www.JimMaunder.ca