24" x36"
Oil on canvas 2024
@stephenaltena
Stephen Altena is co-founder and co-curator of Hundred Dollar Gallery/The Hamilton Art Gallery with Andrew McPhail, and is one of the founding members of the Hamilton artist-run collective, The Assembly Gallery. He is a graduate of the Independent Study Program at Dundas Valley School Of Art. The Art Gallery of Hamilton Art Sales Program facilitates sales of his artwork.
THE STORY:
Stephen grew up on a dairy farm outside of Hamilton. The Victorian farmhouse of his childhood with its pressed tin ceilings, patterned wallpaper and china cabinet brimming with ornamental ‘fancies” informed his queer aesthetic.
Sentimentality and nostalgia are often associated with pattern and decoration; as can often be found in the textiles and wallpapers that catch Stephen’s eye. To be too emotional, too sentimental, too decorative, too feminine is often perceived as a weakness. It’s his intention to take these weaknesses and make them a strength; to heighten and amplify this sentimentality, while also exploring beauty and pleasure.
*Please note: Purchased works are available for pickup on Sat. Oct 5th from 12-3pm, otherwise, arrangements will be made between collectors and buyers directly following the Art Circuit.