Vivid colours, organic shapes and energized spaces. These qualities are always present in each of Wheeler Van Lare’s pieces. His art possesses a type of duality: It is both representational as well as abstract; humorous and sad, playful and serious yet irreverent. Van Lare’s strongest message that has been consistent over the years is his attempt for validation and acceptance but on a purely subconscious level. On the surface his colours and imagery can seem so intense; they seem to draw from an emotional well of archetypal imagery that is somewhere beneath his skin.
In the last 15 years Wheeler Van Lare has participated in many shows within the greater Southern Alberta area. His work has been shown and available for sale in local boutiques and some small independent galleries over the years. Wheeler Van Lare’s work has also been featured and reviewed in Artichoke Magazine back in Fall of 1999 when he participated in the Bending Limbs exhibit at the Break the Fast Cafe and Gallery in Calgary along side two other local artists Patricia Ashley and Tammy McGrath. The Bending Limbs show was Wheeler’s ‘coming out party’ as an artist; it was perhaps his most provocative statement to date and represents his unique ability to evoke emotional acceptance and disdain.
At the present time, Wheeler maintains a busy studio practice where he is based in Calgary’s Mission district. Wheeler’s work is always in demand for commissions and charity events and since the year 2000, he has created a unique one of a kind collection of hand painted mailboxes.
Wheeler’s mailboxes have taken on a life of their own and have
won the artist much praise for their originality, unique branding as well as their whimsical designs. They will be highly sought after in the near future as collectables. The artist plans to release limited editions versions of upcoming mailbox designs in the near future.
© 2008 Wheeler Van Lare
