Facade

Acrylic on canvas
24" x 24"
2010

The subject of this painting originates from the east end of Hamilton's main road, King Street; a once-prosperous, working-class neighbourhood that hit hard times in the seventies and eighties along with many of its rust-belt brothers. Some stores remain in this stretch of retail but most are transient, like the lifestyles of many who frequent these places.

This setting drew me in with its strong colours and lines. I often fine tune or completely redesign a scene but this piece is very close to true form. Beauty can be found in unexpected places.

When not outside looking for inspiration in back alleys, old factory grounds and industrial spaces, Gord Leverton finds time to pursue his art career and enjoy family life. A self-taught artist, Gordon's previous incarnations—as picture framer, writer, retailer and entrepreneur—have helped form his direction in art and his fascination for urban decay and architectural design. Born in Chatham, Ontario, his formative years spent in the rural southwest farm belt gives him a different perspective than many on the state of cities and their legacy.

Gordon is a member of several guilds and artist groups including: Burlington Fine Arts Association, Burlington Art Centre, Art Gallery of Hamilton, Gallery 96 (Stratford), Hamilton Artists Inc., and Sunrise Gallery (Hamilton). His artwork has shown in the Art Gallery of Hamilton, Glenhyrst Gallery (Brantford), Todmorden Mills Museum in Toronto, Ogilvy Hall in Montreal and Tom Thomson Memorial Gallery in Owen Sound. Many various private and corporate collections are home to his work, including the City of Toronto fine art collection in St. Lawrence Market.

If Gord had time for hobbies, they would include reading literature, music, photography and staying active. He makes his home in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada where he does find time to spend with his wife, Nancy and two children.

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