www.dalecookart.com
Dale Cook has filled her life with creativity from an early age. It defines her as a person and brings fulfilment and meaning to her every day. As with her parents, Dale has always been resourceful and found true satisfaction from creative efforts.
“We grew up with the attitude that if something needed fixing, or building, we would learn how to do it ourselves.”
And that is what led Dale to painting. It has been a journey of study and practice. Dale has been accepted as a juried member of the Society of Canadian Artists, Oil Painters of America. American Society of Marine Artists and the Federation of Canadian Artist.
“People often remark on how talented someone is. I believe that if the desire is there, then it is the effort that results in growth. And sometimes, you connect with the spark of creativity that results in great art.”
In 2009, a year-long project had a significant impact in Dale's career. She created a series of paintings based on food security – stories of people's struggles in third world countries. This resulted in the Art of Sharing collaboration with PWRDF and the Canadian Foodgrains Bank, which Dale is happy to discuss in further detail at any opportunity.
For many years, Dale has painted landscapes, still life, figurative art, plein air painting but is always drawn to painting her favourite subject: water.
Dale’s recent paintings focus on her beloved Maritime shores. She captures the colours and movement of the azure water and breakers and the activity of the seaside. Dale uses her skills to bring alive her appreciation of the beauty and connection with “Memories of summers swimming at the lake, running on the warm sand of the beaches, the chill of the Atlantic numbing our legs, the smells, sounds, evoking excitement, peace, joy and above all, a sense of home has instilled a deep and profound connection with water and the shore.”
Dale lives in Quispamsis with her husband Bruce, and together they have raised three adult children, each with their own creative skills. Dale continues to study art and enjoys creating new pieces in her studio and en plein air.
The desire to create is one of the deepest yearnings of the human soul. - Dieter F. Uchtdorf
