“FIRE PIT #3” By Kim Dorland

36 by 30 inches, oil and acrylic on canvas

Kim Dorland is a contemporary Canadian artist celebrated for his bold, expressive paintings that explore themes of identity, memory, and the natural world. Born in 1974 in Wainwright, Alberta, Dorland grew up in close proximity to the Canadian wilderness, an environment that profoundly influenced his artistic vision.

After completing his formal education at the Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design in Vancouver, British Columbia, and the York University in Toronto, Ontario, Dorland emerged as a distinctive voice in the Canadian art scene. He gained recognition for his unique approach to painting, which often involves a visceral layering of thick impasto and vivid colors. His technique creates a sense of depth and texture that invites viewers to immerse themselves in his works.

Dorland’s art is deeply rooted in personal experience and nostalgia, often drawing inspiration from his memories of growing up in rural Canada. His paintings frequently depict scenes of nature, cabins, and forests, imbued with a sense of emotional intensity and raw energy. Despite his reliance on representational imagery, Dorland’s work transcends mere realism, evoking a sense of the sublime and the uncanny.

In addition to his fascination with the Canadian landscape, Dorland’s art reflects a broader engagement with contemporary culture and technology. He often incorporates elements of popular culture, such as graffiti and digital manipulation, into his paintings, creating a dialogue between the traditional medium of painting and the digital age.