Whitney Lewis-Smith | Antidotes To Apathy
Whitney Lewis-Smith | Antidotes To Apathy
April 9 - 27, 2026
Bau-Xi Gallery | Dufferin
1384 Dufferin Street, Toronto | Upper Gallery
In her latest collection, Antidotes to Apathy, Canadian photographic artist Whitney Lewis-Smith invites us to pause, reconnect with our subconscious, and rediscover wonder. In today’s chaotic world, constant exposure to our flaws can foster a sense of cynicism. Yet history shows that adversity has consistently driven human growth and transformation, fueled by collective optimism. Lewis-Smith earnestly asks that we remain open to what is possible and allow our minds to wander freely.
This exhibition includes two unique photogravure copper etching plates, along with their companion prints on the finest Japanese paper - exclusive to Bau-Xi Gallery.
Artist Statement:
In today’s modern chaos, where our own faults and failures are being reflected back at us with constant intensity, it’s no wonder cynicism has found it’s way into our minds, holding us hostage. But humanity has waded tumultuous waters throughout our existence. Impossible odds have created the pressure to crack open our potential for transformation. Collective optimism has been the catalyst that made way for evolution.
Each photograph in this body of work acts as a thread of connection. They are breadcrumbs of stories from the subconscious mind that offer to stir something inside the self. These images are a quiet opportunity to pause and move out of busied detachment. They act as a reminder that wonder and a vivid existence are possible when we let our minds wander. - Whitney Lewis-Smith
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Using 8 X 10 glass plate negatives, Lewis-Smith documents her highly detailed set constructions exploring the nuanced ways plants, animals, and people interact. Having previously worked in ecological fieldwork, her staged tableaus are layered with scientific, historic, and cultural chronicles. The flora and fauna in her photographs are collected during field expeditions, as well as from healers, storytellers, and museum collections across North America.
Works by the artist can be found in collections such as Global Affairs Canada, City of Ottawa Public Art Collection, The Beaverbrook Art Gallery, SUMMA Contemporary Art Fair Permanent Acquisitions, Maison Simons, the private collection of Justin Trudeau, among others.