After Joanne Cole’s art studio in Western Bay was destroyed by a fire in August, she lost three decades’ worth of work. She left her studio on the second day of the Kingston fire, which ravaged Conception Bay North, destroying over 200 structures.
Gone in the flames were sketches and paintings from her early career, old books she used for journal binding, a painting she had been working on for three years, her grandmother’s rocking chair, and work tables. Despite this loss, her home overlooking the community remained untouched. Cole now uses a corner of her living room as her makeshift studio while she plans to rebuild next year.
Reflecting on the devastation, Cole shared with CBC News that the experience was surreal, especially witnessing the destruction of other people’s homes. Moving to Conception Bay North in 2022, she established her studio in 2024, drawing inspiration from the landscape for her artwork.
Post-fire, Cole continues to paint the view from her window, though the scenery has changed drastically. The once lush forest filled with vibrant colors is now replaced by charred trees and rocks. Despite the challenges, Cole finds creativity amidst the ruins, discovering new geological details exposed by the fire.
Adapting to the transformed landscape, Cole remarked on the haunting beauty of the blackened trees and the unique lighting effects, which convey a sense of solitude. The burnt surroundings have become her muse, inspiring her to create art that reflects the new reality.
Embracing the elements of her altered environment, Cole has started using clay from ant hills and charcoal from burned sticks in her artwork. She views this process as a symbol of regeneration and a fresh start in her artistic journey.
As she navigates through the aftermath of the fire, Cole remains determined to create beauty from the remnants, infusing her art with heartfelt expression and resilience.