The Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre will present “The Spring Shoreline,” a debut solo exhibition by artist Tanya Markvart, on display from May 27 to June 22 in the Joyner Gallery.

An opening reception will be held Sunday, June 1, from 2 to 4 p.m., with artist remarks at 2:30 p.m.

Markvart, a self-taught artist living in the north Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula, has a background in film production and environmental studies, with degrees from Concordia University and the University of Waterloo. Her path from film to conservation and then visual art informs her creative approach, combining storytelling, ecological awareness and psychological themes.

The exhibition includes 12 paintings inspired by photographs taken during solo walks along the Niagara Escarpment landscape in the Bruce Peninsula. The works explore the connection between spiritual, emotional and physical experiences, with rock formations of dolostone and limestone transformed into abstract compositions.

Markvart works with acrylic ink on birch wood panels, allowing the wood grain to remain visible and add texture to each piece. Her compositions are created from a bird’s-eye view and each painting is titled to suggest her interpretation, while encouraging personal reflection.

The exhibition aims to provide visitors with a contemplative experience through colour, form and abstract representation.

The paintings are available to purchase at niagarapumphouse.ca.