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Art Imitating LifeAlberta painter pays tribute to his rural rootsBy Edna Manning
Doell finds inspiration in all aspects of nature: the serenity of a glorious sunset; a sky brilliantly transformed by northern lights or a log cabin nestled in an idyllic mountain setting. His love of beauty and tranquility is clearly revealed in the romantic elements of his work. His paintings are also vivid recollections of his boyhood growing up in rural Saskatchewan in the 1940s. "My art could be called western or nostalgic realism. Some is impressionistic because I'm trying to create a mood. I paint what I see, what I feel, the way I interpret a scene. I think that's what brings it to life," says the Saskatoon-based artist. Doell was the fourth of ten children raised on a small farm north of Saskatoon where hard work, responsibility and integrity were fundamental principles learned in his youth. A keen interest in art was evident early in Doell's life. In school he sketched scenes of rural life familiar to him: the snowy fields he'd traversed en route to school, the horse-drawn sleigh tethered to a post outside the classroom window, a wood-burning stove radiating its warmth. Music held a special place in Doell's family. Early in his teens, he decided to pursue his musical talents as a singer, songwriter and guitarist. By the time he was 18, he was travelling across western Canada and the United States as lead singer of a country-rock band, "The Tree Tops." They performed at a variety of shows, nightclubs and supper clubs.
He quickly made connections, beginning with small in-home shows, often organized by friends and acquaintances. That led to larger shows, such as those at rodeos and exhibitions, which drew crowds in the thousands and provided tremendous exposure to his work. In more recent years, Doell sets up his easel in shopping malls. He says he appreciates the observations he receives from the "mall of critics," and modestly concedes that most of the comments are positive. Doell's diligence and dedication has been rewarded over the 35 years he has made a living with his paintbrush. Part of his success is due to his connection with the public – stopping to converse while he is painting. At times his work will have a profound emotional impact on viewers who relate to the images as they unfold on his canvas. Doell's use of reflections and contrast with light and shadow adds warmth and cheer, giving the impression of highly-detailed work. "A painting can incorporate a great deal of detail if the artist draws the viewer's eye to the focal point initially, then directs his attention out to the rest of the scene. This flow creates a sense of movement that stirs the emotions and creates depth and feeling. The viewer is drawn into the painting," Doell explains. "In the harvest scene, for example, the focal point is the team of horses pulling the hayrack. Then I brought the stooks and threshing machine in behind. The elevator and train off in the distance tie the story together and set the mood." Although he spends a great deal of time on the road, art has provided the flexibility to take time off for family vacations. Travelling is also a good time to take advantage of photo opportunities and a chance to visit art galleries. Doell has a loyal following - one customer in Alberta has purchased 35 of his originals. About a third of his work is commissioned. He is now selling more giclee (prints on canvas) which makes his work accessible to everyone.
"When I finish a painting, even if someone doesn't buy the original - if the limited edition sells, that gives me a lot of satisfaction because it tells me it's a good work of art." Today Doell's music recording studio – across the hallway from his art studio - is a place where he goes for inspiration for his art. And vice versa. His musical group, consisting of his four brothers and himself, is currently recording a CD of gospel music with a country flavor. By sharing his artistic and musical talents, Doell shares a part of his own character - a gentle and quiet spirit whose roots will always remain in the country. For more information, check out Jerry Doell's website at www.jerrydoell.com. |
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Jerry Doell's art reflects a way of life as vibrant and enduring as the West itself. Many of his oil paintings are reminiscent of an era when horses were still an integral part of farming on the prairies.
However, in 1968, after a successful ten-year career in the music industry, Doell's life took a new course — that of an artist. "It was somewhat humbling at first starting at the bottom again, going door to door selling my oil paintings," he says.