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Desiree Patterson

Photography
Printmaking

Desirée Patterson is a multifaceted Canadian photographic artist, whose creative expression transcends through photography, installation, sculpture, performance and public art. Residing in Vancouver, BC, on the ancestral lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, Patterson’s self-taught journey in art began amidst a profound global expedition through forty countries. This journey not only enriched her cultural perspective but also exposed her to the pressing realities of environmental and societal challenges. These experiences deeply impacted her, serving as a catalyst for the themes and direction of her art practice.

Patterson’s artistic process is both rigorous and exploratory, involving extensive research that often incorporates scientific findings into her art, creating a unique fusion of aesthetics and empirical knowledge. Her approach is characterized by adept image capture and meticulous post-production techniques that transform form, shape, and orientation into unified compositions.

Central to Patterson’s work are themes of sustainability, environmental stewardship, social justice, and the critical examination of humanity’s discordant relationship with the natural world. Her compelling narratives have been showcased in over forty group exhibitions internationally and are featured in monumental public art installations, as well as in private and corporate collections across North America, Europe, the UK, and Hong Kong.

As an activist and environmental leader, Patterson’s commitment to fostering change is evident through her training with former Vice President Al Gore and her mentorship in the Futures/forward program. Through her diverse artistic mediums, she bridges communities, ignites curiosity, and fosters transformative dialogues.

Her recent group exhibitions include “Nonreturnables” at Two Rivers Gallery, Prince George (2023), and her solo showcases, such as “Anomaly” at Ferry Building Gallery, West Vancouver (2023), and “Paradigm Shift” at Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Vancouver (2022), continue to captivate audiences and provoke thought on pressing global issues. Patterson’s art is not only a visual feast but a catalyst for change, echoing her belief that creativity can indeed reshape the world.