Atmospheric Resonance

"Atmospheric Resonance", in addition to referring to the optical experience of luminous colour, is a natural terrestrial electromagnetic phenomenon driven by fluctuations in global lightning storm activity. Also called “Schumann Waves”, this vibration is believed by some to have an effect on human circadian rhythm, binding the earth’s cycles with those of the body.

Following from past work inspired by notions of the sublime–and considerations of the nature/culture dialectic associated with that term–this new body of work explores the intersection of modernist form, landscape, and backyard do-it-yourself technology. In a series of pared down paintings depicting provisional architecture and geometric form, imperfect yet functioning structures connote a practical, intimate and evolving relationship between user and environment. Complementing the paintings are sculptural forms based on a functioning flat packed and folded cook stove design utilizing radiant colour and tone to generate "heat", instead of the prescribed reflective foil. Inspired by systems that harness sun, wind and water, the poetic potential to represent connection with natural cycles in our everyday life is investigated.

Canadian artist Leigh Bridges lives and works in Winnipeg and holds a Master’s degree in Fine Art from the University of Victoria. Bridges was based in Berlin from 2005 to 2007. While in Germany, her exploration of collage vis-à-vis painting developed in dialogue with the “Leipzig School”, with a particular emphasis on aspects of the sublime in landscape depictions. Bridges' most recent work both expands and complicates these established directions, intersecting modernist forms, schema for do-it-yourself sustainable technology, and landscape.

Leigh Bridges has exhibited across Canada, in the United States and overseas, most recently in Toronto, Montreal, Berlin, Vancouver, Melbourne, Seattle and Skien, Norway. Her work is part of several corporate collections, including Bank of Montreal, Toronto Dominion Bank, and Global Affairs Canada. Bridges holds a position of Assistant Professor of Art and Design at the University of Manitoba.