Ryan Van Der Hout
Light Abstractions

May 26- June 27, 2010
Artist's Reception: Saturday, June 5 from 2-5pm


Ryan Van Der Hout,Light Composition 3, unique chromogenic print, 30 x 40 inches

Ryan Van Der Hout draws with light. Van Der Hout distills photography to its most basic elements: light, photographic paper and his actions as the artist. Utilizing these basic elements, Van Der Hout creates vibrant photographs which entice viewers to question and explore the lines, colours, and shapes within the two-dimensional plane.

By casting beams of light directly onto photographic paper, Van Der Hout creates gestural lines, which trace the path of light. His work stands apart from the influence of technology as images are created without the aid of a camera. A sense of mystery and unknowingness is created as no image is revealed until the artistic process is complete. Once the image is developed, the depth of each line and shadow is revealed.

This series of photographs follows a modernist approach, which “criticizes and dissects the procedures of the medium.” The concept of the artist’s hand is one that permeates every aspect of Van Der Hout’s work. He is discarding what photography has traditionally embodied by creating the object and image himself.

Borrowing from the abstract expressionists, Van Der Hout's light abstractions exude a command of colour. Through their vibrancy they draw the viewer in to explore their line and form. His images have a strong sense of motion and movement, forcing the eye to constantly change and remain in flux. Each work, through its colour and tone speak to baser emotional impulses, not dependent on object or narrative.

Ryan Van Der Hout graduated from the photography program at Ryerson University and has exhibited in Toronto, Montreal and New York. His works are held in both private and pubic collections across North America.  His works have been featured in major Toronto events, including; the Toronto International Art Fair, Nuit Blanche, the CONTACT Photography Festival and has been named twice times for Artscape’s Emerging Artist Showcase of the 15 best Toronto-based artists under 25. Lonsdale Gallery is pleased to present his solo exhibition, Light Abstractions, from May 26 – June 27, 2010.


Lonsdale Gallery is located in Forest Hill Village and was founded in 1995  as a gallery of contemporary painting, sculpture and photography.