Biography
Doug Taplin's artistic journey traces back to his upbringing on a ranch nestled alongside the South Saskatchewan River, where the vast expanse of nature served as both playground and muse. It was here, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Canadian prairies, that Doug first developed his deep reverence for the natural world and its timeless mysteries.
Driven by a fascination with the evolution of painting traditions from the earliest cave artworks to contemporary expressions, Taplin's artistic quest centers on capturing the primal gaze of our ancestors and their instinctive connection to the earth. Inspired by the simplicity and directness of ancient visual languages, he seeks to preserve these qualities while infusing them with a contemporary sensibility.
In his art process, Doug adopts a minimalist approach to all elements and formal considerations, reflecting a profound commitment to simplicity and restraint. This minimalist ethos is most evident in his palette, which consists solely of four colors: white, black, ochre, and red. Each hue is chosen with precision, imbuing his paintings with a sense of elemental purity and raw intensity.
Doug's art is a testament to his dedication to the essence of painting itself. Despite any detours or distractions, he always finds himself returning to the core of his being—a painter compelled by an innate desire to distill the essence of existence onto canvas.
Through his deliberate choices and meticulous craftsmanship, Doug Taplin invites viewers to embark on a journey of introspection and connection—to reawaken the primal instincts that lie dormant within us all and to rediscover our inherent bond with the natural world.
Artist Statement
In my artistic practice, I explore the connection between ancient and contemporary art, inspired by early hunters who depicted their prey on cave walls. My work reflects the enduring relationship between humans and animals, as well as our fascination with the natural world.
Drawing from the simplicity and directness of ancient art, I create animal paintings that blend traditional themes with modern techniques. I focus on strong formal elements—line, color, and composition—to evoke emotional responses and create a dialogue between old and new.
My goal is to capture the energy and essence of animals while exploring the balance between tradition and innovation. Through my art, I aim to reconnect viewers with the primal instincts we share with our ancestors and to highlight the timeless bond between humanity and nature.
By continuing the tradition of early art, I hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the natural world and our shared history as creators and storytellers.