This week, Fragrant Wood Gallery debuts their latest collection, Western Canada’s largest curated collection of Balinese wood carvings is now on display in the clean, modern gallery.
The unique combination of ancient Asian techniques and themes contrasts with cool Western modernity of the gallery. “We want to reframe the perceptions of ancient art forms,” says Fragrant Wood Gallery manager and curator Estelle Fu. “Seemingly dated pieces become beautifully contemporary when fused with today’s crisp, minimal aesthetic.” A relative newcomer to Vancouver’s South Granville gallery row, opening in 2011, Fragrant Wood is developing a niche as the city’s location for Southeast Asian Art.
This latest collection, comprised of intricately carved wooden sculptures and masks, alongside vibrant paintings, is the product of many years of study and travel throughout Bali and the neighbouring region. Each piece was privately acquired during numerous trips across Bali, Indonesia, including works by noted artists I.B. Oka, Ida Bagus Anom Suryawan, A.A. NG Suta Wijaya and A.A. GD Raka Cipta. “Fragrant Wood Gallery has built close relationships with the artists we represent,” adds Ms Fu, “We can’t wait to introduce their beautifully timeless work to Vancouver’s most discerning collectors and admirers.”
Fragrant Wood Gallery is located at 2233 Granville Street, Vancouver BC, open 10am to 6pm Tuesday to Sundays
Ph: 604 558 2889 Twitter: @fragrantwood1 Facebook: Fragrant-Wood-Gallery