Peggy Morley's aesthetic involves the transformation of everyday objects through her unique perception. Working from life, the process of applying paint or wax undertakes an energy directed by the medium melded with artistic decisions on levels of both the conscious and subconscious.  This process is both visual and physical as illustrated in the bold brushwork, strong colours and dynamic compositions of her work.  This allows her to create a fresh sense of reality that reflects its source in the natural world but does not strive to replicate it. Her work draws the viewer into sharing her own vision.

Building on many successful years of painting in oil, Morley has discovered the rich potential of the encaustic method of painting.  Originally used in the preservation of mummies in 100-300 AD this type of painting has seen a resurgence in recent years starting with Jasper Johns in the 1950s.  The hot beeswax is applied to a rigid wood surface and bonded using heat.  The quick drying time of wax, relative malleability of the surface and the depth of pigmentation allows for an exciting and endless exploration of mark making including experimenting with layering, texturing, scraping, incising and colouring.

Her florals are inspired by flowers she selects for their vibrant colour and interesting shapes. Not essential to physical survival, the study of flowers can enliven our spiritual selves. Following in a strong tradition of still life painting and influenced by the work of Vincent Van Gogh, Morley's work is a passionate, colourful exploration of the beauty and joy of nature and of life. 

Morley is drawn to landscape painting as she experiences it -  biking, hiking or paddling through the moment.  This intimate observation of the land is captured in her studies of water lilies and waves.  Her travels around the world have inspired new perspectives as well as awakened a distinctive observation of the unique Canadian landscape, all which is reflected in her work.

Education

R & F Encaustic Seminar, Kingston, New York, 2006
Banff Centre for the Arts, Residency Program, 2001
Honours Bachelor of Fine Art, Queen's University, Kingston 1987
Graphic Arts, Alogonquin College, Ottawa 1982
Painting, Drawing & Sculpture, Ottawa School of Fine Art, Ottawa  1977

Publications

Kingston Women Artist Date Book and Calendar
“Art of the Heart, Kingston, a City of Galleries",  Patricia Casson Henderson, p 67 Kingston Life, Fall 2007

Corporate Collections

Queen's University, Kingston, Ont.
Correctional Services Canada, Kingston, Ont.
Imperial Life, Kingston, Ont.
Willow Physicians, Kingston, Ont.

Solo Shows

Gallery Raymond, Kingston 2006
The  Studio Gallery, Kingston 2005
Wilson Room, Public Library, Kingston 2004

Group Shows

The New Arts Festival, Ottawa,  09
Kingston Arts Council, Kingston,  03-09
Kingston Studio Tour, Kingston 2007
The Ladies Room, Toronto 2004 & Orleans, 05
Kingston Regional Art Show 2005
Organization of Kingston Women Artists 1995 - 09
Garden Art Show, Kingston 2004
Edward Day Gallery, Kingston
Kingston Women's Art Festival, Kingston 19912-95, 97-98, 02
Napanee Studio Tour, Napanee1999-2000
The Distillery District Show, Toronto 2004
Toronto Outdoor Show, Toronto 1986, 94, 98-00, 03
Sesquicentennial, Queen's Quay, Toronto 1992
Springer Lounge, Grand Theatre, Kingston  1991, 92, 94, 95
Kingston Outdoor Show, Kingston 1991-92
B.F.A. On View, Kingston 1987
B.F.A. Graduation Exhibition