Phillips Gallery hosts Whitefish artist’s solo show

Phillips Gallery is hosting Whitefish artist Deborah Quynn’s solo show, The Trail of Life, featuring paintings inspired by her small farm. 

Quynn’s love for animals is evident in her latest painting series which is meant to inspire joy and appreciation for life. To capture the animals’ “essence and personality” on canvas, she spent time on her farm studying their behavior, movement and character

“When I look at my animal paintings, I see my love for that animal in every brush stroke, especially the ones soaked in light or received a touch of real gold,” Quynn said.

“My beloved mule and donkey paintings remind me of these beautiful, hardworking groups with big personalities loaded with cuteness. If they get upset, we all know no one can make them move not even an inch as the saying goes ‘stubborn as an ass.’ We all heard stories of brave mules fighting coyotes or wolves, saving their humans' lives, or traveling long distances with great endurance. I think it is that resistance that makes them who they are,” she said. 

In a press release, Quynn spoke of her belief that God made animals for people to enjoy and to encourage us to appreciate life. 

“We witness their route of life, from birth to death,” Quynn said about titling the exhibit The Trail of Life.

Quynn's dream of becoming an artist began in childhood. Growing up in the mountains of Afghanistan, she was drawn to beautiful paintings on display around her village. She studied these paintings, connecting to them on a spiritual level. Through painting, Quynn said she finds peace and a closeness to God.

The exhibit will be on display Jan. 3 through Jan. 13 at the gallery located inside the Kalispell Center Mall. An opening reception is planned from 5 to 7 p.m. Jan. 5 with an artist talk starting at 5:30 p.m. The public is invited to ask questions about the art. 

For more information call 309-2335.