A unique exhibition that invites participants to explore and share their evolution as artists opens soon at Arbor Gallery. “Now & Then” includes the work of 12 of the Gallery’s member artists, each of whom were asked to display two artworks: one completed long ago, and one in the present-day. The intention was to challenge them to consider how their thematic interests might have changed or remained constant, to reflect on any developments in their technique, and to identify divergences and connections between their past and present selves.
The resulting collection is diverse, exciting and inspiring, with paintings in oil and acrylic, watercolours, mixed media sculpture, drawings and more.
“In many instances, artists have chosen a piece they created several decades ago to showcase beside a contemporary creation,” said the Gallery’s Artistic Director, Andrea Belcham. “It’s fascinating to see how even after all this time, preoccupations may be the same – and how an artist’s particular flair remains constant. It’s also touching to see how very early works have been kept and cherished, and now have a chance to be shown.”
The artists included in the exhibition are Doreen Dyet, Susie Fairbrother, Merle Halpenny-Roy, Susan Jephcott, Christine Lenoir-Godin, Mary Ellen Mueller Legault, Veronika McKerrell, Léola Meagher, Deborah Peate, Stephanie Pete, Lise Piché and Hélène Roy.
“Now & Then” runs from March 13 to April 5. The public can meet many of the featured artists at the exhibition’s vernissage on Saturday, March 15, from 1 to 3pm.
Arbor Gallery is located at 103 High St. in Vankleek Hill. For more information, visit www.arborgallery.org, or call (613) 678-6171.
