✿ Ann BALCH ✿

Measha Brueggergosman is a “woman of color” in all senses – colorful in her zest for life, her clothes, her sensuality, her experience of so many cultures, her sharp wit. She is all these things, but Measha is a private person and that’s what comes out in these paintings. Over a period of 3 years, I sat in on rehearsals in 3 cities, went backstage during intermissions, and was with Measha in a tiny, cement-walled dressing room as she warmed up for her numbers. Being at such close range to the power and beauty of that voice and her person was electrifying, and an unforgettable gift. The hours I spent with her on vacation with friends and family, relaxing unadorned, contemplative, preoccupied with her thoughts – I’ve seen that, too. What I see in “Glass House” is Measha in touch with the source that powers her. - Ann Balch, 2010 -

Ann BALCH is based on Canada's east coast, in Moncton, New Brunswick. She was elected to the prestigious Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour (CSPWC) in 2001 and the Society of Canadian Artists (SCA) in 2007. Confident use of color and emotional intensity in her images of black women have garnered several national awards, and wonderful recognition in print. She has rediscovered oils in the past two years, and includes both media in current shows. Her work is held in collections in Canada, the US and England, including the Canadiana Fund State Art Collection; New Brunswick Art Bank; Department of Foreign Affairs, Government of Canada; the Atlantic Lottery Corporation and the City of Moncton.