“Through vibrant colour and myriad forms of life, I attempt to present a unique view of the underwater world beyond the Newfoundland shoreline – the seabirds along its rocky cliffs and its bogs, forest and fields inland. The surface teems with details from the natural environment, but captures the duality of its fragility and durability under the harsh conditions on this edge of Canada. Through direct observation of the environment, I build up a storehouse of experiences and memories – supported by reference photographs and scientific fact – that are the catalyst for my paintings.”
Diana Dabinett was born in Zimbabwe in 1943. After completing a BFA and Secondary Teacher’s Diploma in Cape Town, she taught in high schools in Zimbabwe and England before moving to London, Ontario in 1969 to become assistant curator at the Art Gallery of London. In 1975, Diana moved to Newfoundland and Labrador and since then she has maintained a full time professional studio art practise from her home and studio in Shoe Cove and her new studio in St. John’s. She has exhibited in over 70 solo and group exhibitions, and in 2018 she was awarded the ArtsNL Artists’ Achievement Award.
Diana Dabinett’s work is found in the public collections of The Provincial Art Bank, NL, the City of St. John’s, the Canada Council Art Bank, Foreign Affairs Canada, the University of Western Ontario, and many private collections around the world including Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. Diana has completed over 15 site specific commissioned works for public spaces such as the Manuel’s River Hibernia Interpretation Centre, the Deer Lake Airport, the Fluvarium, St. John’s, Labrador Health Centre, Goose Bay, and Community Hospital in Monterey, California.
Fall Along Rennie's River Trail
Exploring Long Pond
Fishing in Manuels River Waterfall
Rushing Waters on Waterford Linear Trail
Jumping the Rocks on Waterford Linear Trail
Turbulence at Rennie's River Waterfall
Peaceful Meanderings Along Virginia River
Dawn, Through the Narrows
Dawn: August 22
Dawn: October 2
Dawn: October 26
Dawn: December 3
Dawn: February 17
Dawn: February 26
Dawn: April 17
Peaceful River 1
Peaceful River 2
Shining Water, Virginia Pond
Cascade, Virginia River
South Brook 2
Iris 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
Barachois Waterfall
A Thin, White Line