FORWARD

PERHAPS THE GREATEST CHALLENGE for an artist is to separate the essential from the trivial. Lasting works of art are those that rise to this challenge, that identify the essential and communicate it. For some, this process may require radical means. Henry David Thoreau spent two years and two months living alone, in the simplest of conditions, on Walden Pond. He determined to have the leisure and freedom he needed to write his report of the world without sacrificing his interests to support himself. Luke Lindoe is of like mind. While not protesting as much as Thoreau, Lindoe has been able throughout his long career to identify his essential, and to seek it assiduously. From the age of 19 through to today, Lindoe has examined clay from virtually every angle. And, to put his clay work into perspective, he has also painted in watercolour and in oil. His vision surely allows us to see more clearly, to differentiate the essential from the trivial.

The Nickle Arts Museum is proud to produce this exhibition We have a policy of championing the work of strong, creative ATbertans and are pleased to number Luke Lindoe among this group. This exhibition and the Nickle's policy fit well within the University of Calgary's strategic direction, one guiding principle of which is to affirm and strengthen our role as a research university. By producing thoroughly researched, quality exhibitions, the Nickle is adding to the university's production, and advancing the study of Canadian culture. Another strategic direction is to further post-degree continuous learning. With this exhibition, we are pleased to introduce Calgarians, Albertans and many others to the sensitivity and joy of Luke Lindoe's essence.

This show could not have happened without the strong support and collaboration of Luke. He has been tireless in identifying work, the discussion process, and contributing to the catalogue. But his true value can be seen most clearly in his work, in the pieces exhibited here. We are most grateful too, to the many collectors of Luke's work who have so generously agreed to share them with us. Thank you very much. This exhibition was curated by Les Graf, who has admired Luke's work for many years. He also wrote the sensitive catalogue essay, which so clearly communicates a sense of both Luke and his work. He has been persistent in research, in tracking down elusive pieces and noting fascinating details of Luke's life. Thank you so much. Another important contributor is Christine Sowiak, Assistant Curator at the Nickle. Christine coordinated all aspects of this large and complex show, and did a fine job at it. Other members of the Nickle staff were also involved in important ways. Together, we hope to communicate the essence of Luke Lindoe.

Ann Davis
Director