New exhibit explores the beauty of everyday objects

Local painter makes dream a reality

Painter Lynn Rotin is exhibiting her works at the Atlantic School of Theology as part of the school’s arts and theology program. Photo: Caitlin Hanson

Eleven years ago, local painter Lynn Rotin had a dream of a blood-red urn. Unable to forget the image, Rotin decided to paint it - and unknowingly began what has become her signature series.

For Rotin, there is more to bowls than meets the eye. Known for her Empty Vessel, Sacred Objects series, Rotin's paintings draw on ideas of memory, spirituality, and what she calls "transformative qualities of the female."

From dream to reality - this is a theme she will be revisiting for an upcoming show at the Atlantic School of Theology.

The exhibition is called Ecumenical Vessel and centres around the meanings behind functional, everyday containers. The simple beauty of these vessels serves as a universal symbol. It can be recognized by people of all backgrounds and can link human spirits, says gallery curator Regina Coupar.

This exhibition is the fourth put on by the school's new arts and theology program.

The project is designed to "challenge, engage, and speak" about the relationship between contemporary art and theology, says Dr. David Deane, acting chair of the arts and Theology committee.

While the incorporation of art into theology is not a new concept, Coupar says that this is a relationship that has been forgotten in recent centuries.

Rev. Canon Eric Beresford agrees.

"Art is not a marginal preoccupation for theology," he says.

And it may be a medium that will play an increasingly important role in theological training in the future, says Deane.

New communications technologies paired with a redefinition of faith in the 21st century has left people seeking alternative ways to interpret theological themes.

"The hegemony of the book is coming to an end ... art is a forum that is better at expressing paradox," says Deane.

He hopes that the art shows will open way for discussion, helping to replace more traditional academic discourse on theology.

The creation of dialogue also suits Rotin, who sees her entire artistic process - from the first mark on the canvas to the comments made by viewers - as a conversation.

And while Rotin does not purposefully imbue her work with theological themes, she sees her paintings as an extension of herself and her own spirituality.

"I don't really care how anybody wants to interpret it. I leave it up to the viewer ... I'm not going to tell anybody what they should get out of my painting."

Deane is hopeful that the program will continue to grow with time. The program is applying for additional funding which would allow for the appointment of Coupar as a full-time artist-in-residence. Deane hopes this will help to "integrate arts in the daily life of the school."

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