Red Archer
1982.06
Red Archer calls to mind Artemis, the ancient Greek
goddess of hunting and archery, who defends all wild
animals as well as the weak and the young. Different female
archetypes reoccur throughout Leaf’s work produced
between the 1970s-1990s; the urban drifter, nurturer, and
warrior. Red Archer reflects these motifs, but also suggests
autobiographical elements. Coming from a matriarchal
family, Leaf’s mother and grandmother who were both
strong and pragmatic women have also been sources of
inspiration.
This work was created in her Cape Breton studio. Using the
horizon, the artist is able to bring the abstract and
representational together in one place. Leaf’s abstract
landscapes are sites for the artist’s own biographical
narrative, which is also universally accessible for all. In
leaf’s artwork, lived experience is expressed through her
storytelling; one of the narratives being about her
adjustment to life in Mabou.