New Exhibition - Jeffrey Keith & Svava Thordis Juliusson

Abstract Notions
Jeffrey Keith & Svava Thordis Juliusson
November 19 - February 7, 2010

Abstract art uses the language of colour, line, form, and texture to create imagery removed from the traditional views of representation. Abstract work can be deeply narrative, poetic, expressive or solely focused on the joy of pure colour, shape, texture, line or form.

Gallery artists Jeffrey Keith and Svava Thordis Juliusson appear to approach abstraction from diverse and almost conflicting viewpoints. Yet their works dialogue, communicate and share a resonance in their appreciation for the natural world around them.

Jeffrey Keith, Untitled Red, 2008
Oil on Mylar 12" x 12"

Keith successfully demonstrates that abstract expressionism is still current and vital today. His rich and superbly coloured paintings are sensuous, elegant, dynamic and tactile. While known primarily for his large-scale oils on canvas, his work in Abstract Notions proves his skill and talent as a painter, as he translates his large canvases into an intimate 12 x 12" scale.

Svava Thordis Juliusson, Weight I, 2009
Mixed-media drawing on paper

In contrast to the strong gestural expression seen in Keith's work, Juliusson's work appears delicate, exquisite and meticulously executed. Her drawings use line, colour, and texture to create beautifully patterned abstract images that encourage contemplation and reflection.

Upon First Refraction at the Drake Hotel
November 17 - February 9, 2010

Co-Curated by Mia Nielsen & Powell MacDougall

Svava Thordis Juliusson - Barr Gilmore - Junichiro Iwase - Ramon Pous-Landa
Boris Chouvellon - Lisa Neighbour - Duncan McDonald - Michael Toke

Svava Thordis Juliusson, SVONA, 2008

Upon First Refraction is an exhibition of multimedia artworks that emit, reflect or absorb light. On one hand this show was developed to comment on the coming winter solstice and how we culturally respond to the darkest time of the year by celebrating various traditions with light. However, it is not simply a 'holiday' show, but one developed to invite the viewer to consider the unique powers of light and darkness. (Nielsen & MacDougall: Upon First Refraction)

The Drake Hotel is located at 1150 Queen St West. Toronto, ON 416.531.5042

Holiday Gift Ideas

Art is a personal and lasting gift. Join our gift registry or let us help you select the perfect work of art for those special people on your list. We will gift wrap and can store your gift for you.

Some unique and affordable art gift suggestions include:

Photographer Steven James Brown has made a selection of 8" x 10" Cibachromes available. Most images are Artist Proofs and all are priced at $100.


Exquisite wood engravings from Rosemary Feit Covey's Strip Series are available starting at $225 framed.


Svava Thordis Juliusson's delightful and thought-provoking Must Haves are $40 each or two with the display shelf for $100.


James Koester's whimsical and quirky Glove Vase is priced at $185.

Mary McKenzie's beautiful and unique Ceramic Flower Vessels look equally wonderful in the garden or on a shelf or table-top. These flower vessels have been popular for host or hostess gifts. We have a wide selection of individual flowers available for $25 each.


Lauri Lynnxe Murphy uses collage as her sketchbook. We have a wonderful selection of her delightful Collage Drawings both framed and unframed. Prices range from $35 - $100