Felipe Góes at Ottawa School of Art

I am Felipe Góes, a Brazilian artist based in São Paulo. My work revolves primarily around landscapes, which emerge as a blend of memories and fantasy rather than being mere representations of real places. During their development, the intended image often dissolves, resulting in situations such as lakes becoming forests and grasslands transforming into vague color blurs. The final picture emerges organically from the painting process itself.

While using images of landscapes, I intend to offer more than just a visual experience. Each landscape carries within its geological information and the potential for historical, biological, and philosophical interpretations. I aim to create connections between the images and viewers’ memories and experiences.

Excitingly, in July 2024, I will participate in an artist-in-residence program at the Ottawa School of Art (OSA) in Canada’s vibrant capital city. Established in 1879, OSA has a rich tradition in the visual arts, promoting exhibitions, offering art courses, and hosting artist-in-residence programs.

During my residency, I will delve into landscape, art, and nature themes. I’ll explore the National Gallery collection, conveniently located near OSA, and utilize the school’s academic facilities, including painting and printmaking studios.

My previous visit to Canada in 2018 profoundly influenced my practice. I admired works by artists like Tom Thomson, the Group of Seven, Emily Carr, and Kim Dorland. The art of Canada’s First Nations, particularly stone sculptures and wooden totems left a lasting impression.

I also spent time hiking and canoeing in Algonquin Provincial Park, where Thomson created much of his oeuvre and tragically passed away. Canada’s transformative impact continues to shape my work.

The residency’s four main objectives include deepening my research on Canadian art through the National Gallery collection, creating new work at OSA’s studios, engaging with fellow artists, and exploring Ottawa’s natural surroundings. The contrast between Ottawa’s rural landscape and Brazil’s biomes fascinates me.

If you have friends in the region, please spread the word! I look forward to interacting with local artists, curators, and art enthusiasts during this enriching experience.

Felipe Góes, June 2024

@felipegoes.art