Cape Spear Modern

Cape Spear Modern, Dyptych, oil on board, 24" x 32", Steven Rhude


Cape Spear has two lighthouses. The one depicted here is cast in concrete. It contains the personality of modernism through materials, efficiency, minimal design and engineering. Its aesthetics speak of strength and form through simplicity. It is a beacon without habitation. A utilitarian object only. Automated in presence, it contains no keeper but that of technology.

The buoy, though similar in shape to a lighthouse, contains not a precast directive, but a hand carved willfulness of design. It is as though there is a concept within the wood waiting to emerge with the skills of shape, form, and colour imparted by it's maker.

However, there is another lighthouse at Cape Spear. Equally modern, yet classical in its combination of habitation and  utilization. A wood frame structure with a dome shaped lantern. The shape and personality of the old light echos the keeper's history.

  A future study of this facility is in the making.


Steven Rhude, Wolfville, NS

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