Jolene Aarbo

Artist Statement

My work explores the coastal landscape of Vancouver Island, focusing on the edges where forest, ocean, and wildlife meet. Using soft pastel, acrylic or oil, I capture moments of transition—shifting tides, filtered light, and quiet animal presence. I am particularly interested in how changing light shapes mood and transforms a scene.

Grounded in observation, each piece is guided by composition. I use movement—through water, pathways, and gaze—to lead the viewer into the scene, creating depth and flow.

My favourite medium is Pastel which allows me to balance control with immediacy, building layered colour and tonal structure while maintaining a responsive surface.

Time spent in these environments shapes the work. Rather than documenting a single moment, I distill repeated experiences of place into a cohesive series.

Together, the paintings offer a focused, contemporary interpretation of the West Coast—rooted in place, presence, and quiet tension.