Christmas Still Life #1 (Nature morte de Noël #1) , 1980

Galerie Walter Klinkhoff, Montreal Private Collection, Montreal

Artworks by Joseph Plaskett are intimate expressions of everyday life. Known for his rich palette and colourful paintings of interiors, still lifes and portraits, Plaskett was interested in the textures found in nature as well as the artistic relationship with food and flora. In the late 1970s, Plaskett began spending more time in the UK, as opposed to Paris, as he had inherited a farm in the centre of Suffolk called The Cedars. He transformed the two acres surrounding the farm into a beautiful garden and found inspiration within this landscape. “Christmas Still Life #1” depicts Christmas of 1980, perhaps having taken place at the enchanting Cedars home. The painting is a visual delight of wine glasses - both enjoyed and partially full - delectable oranges, empty wine bottles, plates cleaned of food, and vibrant flowers. These tell-tale signs of an enjoyable feast are set against a rich, red tablecloth and bright light pouring in through the window. Composed with warm light, soft forms and vibrant colours, there is a sense of humanity in Plaskett’s painting, as he turns raw materials and found objects into masterpieces.