Rick (Heinrich-Werner ) Giesing (1944-2024)
Rick, a prolific, imaginative artist, died last September just days after the 2024 Studio Tour and his second one man show, “Out of the Woods Again”, at the Crucible Gallery.
He was born near Berlin at the end of WWII and grew up in the industrial Lower Rhineland where, as he said, the ruins were his playground. Circumstances made him deeply independent and determined to make another, more spacious, life in Canada.
Rick always made art. His uncle, the painter Hellmut Seegers, was his earliest influence. Other influences were Joseph Beuys, Emil Nolde, Franz Marc and, especially, collage artists Kurt Schwitters and Hannah Hoch… but his vision was all his own.
Over time, making art became his chief enjoyment. He was surprised that others also enjoyed and found meaning in his work. He wrote, “It’s cosmic, when things fit together in a harmonious way. Things (we discard) are found, stored, and one day they fit together and form new shapes to tickle the mind. This makes a happy, exciting, time for me.”
Tour participants, this year, are invited to view his workshop and garden sculpture as well as collages, sculptures and travel journals on display at the Forest Island Studio.
If possible, guests should use the designated parking area and enjoy the 5 minute stroll to the studio. Those needing to drive to the studio may call 604 483-3727 for assistance.