Analysis Of Bonnie Divine's Figuration Of Places

Bonnie Divine’s art piece ‘Figuration of Places’ depicts a unique and animated perspective on Canada. The canvas of the painting consists of deer hide and displays a variety of animals layered strategically on the hide. Additionally, size varies as each animal and its area represent Canada’s bodies of water; Notably, the largest animals being the turtle, bison and rabbit are positioned closely to represent resemble Baffin Bay, Beamfort Sea, and Hudson Bay. Divine’s intention for her image, is to inform the viewer that nature is alive as well, despite the differences between man and wildlife. Furthermore, she proves this notion by substituting lakes for animals, so to animate the substances and materials by insinuating that land is alive and
not man-made. The significance of this piece is to provide awareness towards our natural resources. Currently, the world is at a stage where we humans are being recklessly greedy and merciless when it comes to the use of these materials. Admittedly, we have become accustomed to the excessive amount of consumption of these substances that we have forgotten how precious and active they are. Living creatures just like us, nature has its limitations. With that being said, nature can die. With the irresponsible use of resources, we can project extinction of not only plants, animals and water, but inevitably ourselves. Bonnie Divine wants us to perceive our resources as alive, so we can be considerate in their handling.