Acclaimed Canadian artist Christopher Pratt's new paintings of solitude and quiet

"All these paintings are about places; places I go in all seasons," said Christopher Pratt, the acclaimed Canadian artist who has launched an exhibition of new work this week. "I like driving. I like the security and solitude of my wagon; aware of the landscape I am passing through as if it were moving and I was standing still. A road sign reads 'Work in Progress'."

A Building at Buchans (Copper, Zinc, Lead; Silver and Gold), 2015 | Christopher Pratt

A Building at Buchans (Copper, Zinc, Lead; Silver and Gold), 2015 | Christopher Pratt

These incredible artworks certainly hint at that peace and quiet out on the road, through almost deserted landscapes that one might find in the vast open spaces of Canada. Each featured building or natural feature that he paints in a muted palette might give comfort, or it could spark feelings of loneliness. No matter your reaction, Pratt certainly knows how to find beauty in the mundane.

Born in 1935 in St. John's, Newfoundland, Pratt attended the Glasgow School of Art from 1957 - 1959 and in 1961 received a BA in Fine Art from Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick. Throughout his career, he has received many awards and honours. In 1980 Pratt designed the Provincial Flag of Newfoundland and Labrador.

The show, entitled Work in Progress, is taking place at the Mira Godard Gallery in Toronto until 14 October 2017.

Main image: A Building at Buchans (Copper, Zinc, Lead; Silver and Gold), 2015 | Christopher Pratt

A Hangar at Stephanville, 2017 | Christopher Pratt

A Hangar at Stephanville, 2017 | Christopher Pratt

A Farewell to Fort MacAndrew: The Last Man Standing, 2017 | Christopher Pratt

A Farewell to Fort MacAndrew: The Last Man Standing, 2017 | Christopher Pratt

Spring: North of Bellburns, South of Anchor Point, 2016 | Christopher Pratt

Spring: North of Bellburns, South of Anchor Point, 2016 | Christopher Pratt

Black Spruce at Barb's, 2017 | Christopher Pratt

Black Spruce at Barb's, 2017 | Christopher Pratt

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