Denman Island artist to have solo exibition at the Pearl Ellis Gallery
Published 12:30 pm Friday, January 30, 2026
A new exhibit from Denman Island’s Tashi Draper is coming to the Pearl Eliss Gallery this month.
Her body of artwork features prints inspired by birds in flight and the flowing paths they carve through the air.
“Movement has always defined Draper’s life, so a serious knee injury that left her housebound created a profound sense of stillness, of being grounded when her instincts longed for motion. During her recovery, watching birds outside her window became a source of both solace and inspiration,” reads a press release from the gallery. “With her spouse’s encouragement, Draper began translating that sensation of freedom into line through drawing and linoleum carving. As each plate took shape, the sweeping arcs, lift, and quiet power of flight emerged, offering a sense of movement and possibility even when walking was not yet possible.”
Each print is hand-carved into natural marmoleum and inked with archival ink. It is also hand-printed on archival paper using a traditional etching press. They are then richly embossed and tactile in black and white, with some touches of colour used as accents.
“One featured work, A Barn Owl Under the Fool Moon, captures an owl in mid-flight, wings spread against a luminous night sky,” reads the press release.
Draper says the owl in flight against the moon became a symbol of strength for her.
“Through her leg has healed, Draper continues to feel the rhythm and flowing movement of birds in every print she creates,” reads the press release. “Rooted in close observation of eagles, ravens, hawks and owls on her Denman Island farm, Flight Lines reflects both a deep connection to the natural world and the healing power of creating practice.”
Flight Lines: The Flowing Movement of Birds runs from Feb. 3 to 28, with an opening reception on Feb. 7 from 1 to 3 p.m.