Private: Richard Ahnert

Toronto-based artist Richard Ahnert takes anthropomorphic painting to a new level, lacing it with a quiet, yet unmistakable animism– an abiding kinship between human and animal. He uses the relationship between animals and humans to explore themes of emotion, metaphor, and narrative with a satirical twist. In his paintings, animals and humans co-exist and coalesce into one society, living amongst each under a variety of pretences; at times they act as welcome companions, others as foes or indifferent counterparts, and in some cases, human and animal are united into one. Storytelling, understated humour, and deep reflection are at the heart of his practice.