Arbor Gallery’s Coup de Coeur – sharing memories and joy

Starting this Thursday, November 25, Arbor Gallery Cultural Centre will open its doors onto a magical and heartwarming exhibition, just in time for Christmas. This special show’s intent is to make everyone realise how beauty and joy surround us in our day-to-day life, and how art in all its form, is so much more than just what we expect to see in an art gallery.

An invitation was sent out to the population at large, and the community answered. Many have sent in their Coup de coeur – opening their heart and describing the bound that they have with the painting, sculpture, book or other.

“The response has been magical,” explains Sylvie Bouchard, who handles the logistics of the show. “People have told us that this invitation has made them stop and look around in their home, realizing how many pieces holding memories surrounded them.”

“Some stories are compelling, some deeply touching, and others cheerful. All of them are meaningful and inspiring.”

The show will feature several paintings, inks and sculptures. A Corn-husk doll and Waldorf doll will mingle with a Christmas collection and an artist childhood book. Some paintings speak of friendship, some of family, others were gifted by departed loved ones and have been cherished since. All speak of love and memories.

“We wanted to present something as a gift to the community, but in the end, the community is giving us the gift of joy,” Bouchard explains.

The show will run from Thursday November 25 until Saturday December 18, when gift baskets from Vankleek Cottage, The Review, Jade Garden, and Garden Path Homemade Soap, will be drawn among the show participants.

Popup Shops

The gallery continues to present popup shops every weekend until December 12. On Saturday, November 28, from 10 am to 4pm, artist Carole Renaud will offer her painted glass, painted wood ornaments and paintings, among other things. Tanya Lalonde, from North Strands by Tanya, will sell her original and whimsical wool creations.

Workshops

More workshops are offered at the gallery. Barbara Starnino crochet snowflakes workshops will run every Tuesday until December 14, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Andrea Belcham whimsical gnome ornament workshop will be held on Monday, November 29, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The Arbor Gallery welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, noon to 4 p.m. Holiday Saturday Hours at the gallery are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during November and December. Find out more: [email protected] or on the Arbor Gallery Facebook Instagram or website.