AND THERE IT IS

Patricia CARROLL

September 30 – October 26, 2025

OPENING RECEPTION  October 4th, 1-3pm

Meaning is a driving force. Patricia allows and encourages the painting to speak for itself as she makes marks spontaneously and intuitively. A conversation develops as she paces back and forth while making those marks. Meaning emerges and she uses her design knowledge to resolve the painting in order to depict that meaning.
Her studies at the Ontario College of Art; her teaching of art in the Toronto District School Board; her practice in intensive workshops with renowned painters (Betsy Dillard Stroud, Gerald Brommer, Pat Dews, Gwen Fox, Robert Burridge); her personal study of John Dewey (painter/philosopher); her monthly peer critiques and art analyses; her revisiting of the elements and principles of design through the creation of instagram and facebook reels; and her unending practice have enhanced her artistic journey. She’s a member of The Old Schoolhouse and the McMillan Arts Centre. She is an elected member of the Society of Canadian Artists (SCA) and an active member of the Federation of Canadian Artists (FCA).

 

 

As a mystery/thriller writer I am always in search of evocative art that creates a sense of the environment and suspense within the covers of my novels. For me, the cover should draw the reader into the literary work. So many of Patricia Carroll’s art pieces are evocative and mysterious, sparking curiosity and anticipation before the first page is turned. Her art is always an inspiration. I am honoured to have her work displayed in all eight of my covers in the Jack McQueen Mystery Thriller series.

David P. Fraser, Nanoose Bay, BC

 

We have been following Patricia’s art for a long time and have grown to love her paintings rendered in Acrylic. She draws from just about all the 20th century genres reflecting undercurrents from such artistic movements as Expressionism, Surrealism, Dada and Fantasy. Her paintings usually display bold strokes and colours showing strong forceful images resulting in unique thematic abstract compositions.

Rick Sheppard and Barb Durant, Vancouver, BC

 

Overtime Pat’s artistic style has evolved from detailed, subtle paintings to stunning large canvases. Her impactful visions are achieved by bold swaths of rich colour.

Liz Gowan, Nanoose Bay, BC

 

I have always been drawn to Pat’s art. Over the years it has brought me much joy. I have seen her art evolve for over 45 years from slow movement to jumping with colour and joy.

Pamela Somers, Goderich, Ontario

 

The McMillan Arts Centre is located on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish Nations, home to the Snaw-Naw-As First Nation
and the Qualicum First Nation