The title of this painting, ‘Willys Nelson’, is a play on words. The vehicle depicted in this piece is a 1950’s Jeep Willys, and the setting is Nelson, BC. The combined name is ‘Willys Nelson’, which is very similar to the name of the iconic country singer/songwriter, Willy Nelson.

I feel there is a symbolic relationship between the Willys Jeep, arguably the most famous Jeep in America and Willy Nelson, the face of the outlaw country movement. With this oil painting I want to share my appreciation for this relationship. The rust and patina on the vintage truck can be compared to Willy’s long grey hair and faded bandana. The houses perched in the background of the painting depict the iconic hillside structures of the City of Nelson. The buildings almost look like an audience watching a folk festival.

The same way that music evokes emotion for the listener, I strive to express emotion through this piece with the use of texture, stroke and colour. I can’t help but hear Willy’s song, ‘On the Road Again’ while looking at this painting.

“I can't wait to get on the road again"

This piece will not be included in the physical exhibition on Granville Island but meets the quality standards of the FCA and is classified as, "Recognized Artwork."