Three Girls Running

Kastel Gallery, Montreal D & E Lake Ltd. Fine Arts, Toronto Private Collection, Toronto

Philip Surrey’s figural studies populate urban scenes, with many of his most popular paintings set in the evening. Adopting a cinematic quality with dramatic white highlights and shadows, Surrey creates sombre and atmospheric night-scapes. This pastel study is a fine example of the artist’s exploration of isolation within society. As the three women glide across the crosswalk, illuminated by the headlights of the stopped car, there is a feeling of disconnect between the figures. Although grouped together, they do not interact with each other, each looking in opposite directions. Populating his works with independent figures, Surrey is able to highlight the feelings of isolation within urban cities and adds emotional depth to his Montreal street scenes.