Lot 44: DARLENE COLE (1972-), CHANT (WHITE HORSE), oil on canvas, 14 ins x 11 ins; 35.6 cms x 27.9 cms

DARLENE COLE (1972-)CHANT (WHITE HORSE)oil on canvassigned, titled and dated 2003 on the reverse 14 ins x 11 ins; 35.6 cms x 27.9 cms Provenance:Private Collection, TorontoDarlene Cole’s dreamy and mysterious paintings explore childhood, memory and the loss of innocence. Inspired by the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, a group of artists who were famous for vivid colors and their meticulous study of nature, and Neil Postman’s The Disappearance of Childhood, which argues that children lose their innocence because of contact with the internet and new technology, Cole elegantly depicts serene flower arrangements and scenes of children at play. Her soft blending technique and pastel color palette create an elegant aura for a world of beauty and wonder. Cole’s work is prominently featured in collections in North America and internationally in Russia, Switzerland, and France. Estimate: $1,000–1,500