In Sweden (my grandparent’s home) there is a word, “smultronstallet”. Translated literally it is “the place of wild strawberries,” but it means much more than that: it is a secret place, discovered, treasured, shared with friends. (The wild strawberries are only implicit; they suggest themselves because of their rarity and beauty.)

Smultronstallet is any personal wonderland that has somehow singled itself out from ordinariness and become free from the bewilderment of the outside world. It is filled with meaning, with compelling humor and gentleness.

Some vital spirit has been uncovered; somehow here the way of the universe has been apprehended and given actuality. “Magic is afoot, God is alive.” Familiar forms take on new aspects, evoke new resonance. Everywhere there is a delightful purposelessness, undiscovered secrets.

An affectionate bond (Thoreau called it “an infinite and unaccountable friendliness”) grows between person and place. One embraces and is embraced. Life is affirmed. It is to be celebrated.

Ann Nelson

Curriculum Vitae

Selected Exhibitions
2010 UNLEASHED, Petley Jones Gallery, Vancouver BC
2010 Earth Laughs in Flowers, Petley Jones Gallery, Vancouver BC
2009 Re-Gifted, Petley Jones Gallery, Vancouver BC
2004 WAC Bennett Gallery, SFU
2003 Martin Batchelor Gallery, Victoria
2001 BC Festival Of Arts Show, Surrey
1997 Surrey Art Gallery
1996 Gateway Gallery, Richmond Art Centre
1996 Keith Alexander Gallery, Vancouver
1994 Atelier Gallery, Vancouver
1992 Atelier Gallery
1992 Richmond Art Gallery
1990 Atelier Gallery, 1989 Zhuhai Gallery, China
1989 Surrey Art Gallery
1987 Surrey Art Gallery
1986 Granville Island Graphics, Vancouver
1984 Surrey Art Gallery
1983 Emily Carr College of Art and Design
Ann’s works are included in many private and corporate collections in Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia and in the collection of the Surrey Art Gallery.

Education
Ann was educated at Douglas College and the
Emily Carr College of Art and Design.