Kathryn Dobbin
Artist in Residence: November 2023 - May 2024
ABOUT KATHRYN DOBBIN
Kathryn Dobbin has long been drawn to the spiral as an eternal form and this inspiration is evident in her exhibition ‘A Matter of Energy’ which showcased in Calgary on May 11, 2024 after an approximate six-month artist residency at the Kiyooka Ohe Arts Centre.
Kathryn Dobbin is an accomplished sculptor and former student of KOAC’s co-founder, Katie Ohe. Kathryn created and donated the kinetic sculpture Dandelion, a visitor favourite at the sculpture park located near the artist in residence studio building.
“As a foundational geometry, the spiral signifies energy, growth, expansion, and contraction. A curve in motion, that emanates from a central point and expands farther out as it revolves around that same point, as well, the reverse is true from without to within. This project has enabled for me an exploration, through exposing alternate constructions within the parameter of assembling energy centre vortices, also known as Chakras. Each objectification, revealing its independent features and personality as, dissected captured energy in physical form. Each individual structure unique and descriptive of its personal communication, whether appearing open or closed, holding or resisting, frozen, or brilliant and welcoming. The building process enables freedom and investigation through the immediacy of the response of the materials revealing an honest response and energy. This notion interests me, and I look forward to sharing it with all of you.”
– Kathryn Dobbin
“It has been a great opportunity to spend time at KOAC to create my latest inspiration.
Being in nature and with solitude has provided an environment for the creative development and unfolding of this latest series.”
See more of Kathryn Dobbins’s works on Instagram.
Images left to right, top then bottom:
A Matter of Energy (detail)
Dandelion in progress
A Matter of Energy exhibition install view
Dandelion (looking up against the sky)
Kathryn Dobbin with Dandelion
Dandelion featured on a group walking tour at Neighbour Appreciation Day, 2025
