Pull together 19 artists from 3 provinces, gather them in a large space (in this case the Assiniboia Curling Rink at the Prince of Wales Centre) and keep an open mind.
Most of us arrived late afternoon Sunday, set up Monday morning and jumped in with both feet shortly thereafter. Today the giant art studio is abuzz with colour, contemplative sampling and “things” are already coming together.
The well attended opening of the art exhibition at the Shurniak Gallery featuring work by all participants brought in artists and patrons alike. It was an exciting official kick-off last night. Today everyone is even more comfortable with each other after spending a couple of hours familiarizing ourselves with each others’ work.
Plein air painting (open to the public) may be relocated to an indoor space overlooking the town due to rain, but we are hopeful the clouds will push apart eventually to let through some warming sun rays. I was hoping to venture out with the camera but that may have to wait…
Sunlight is highly overrated… when creativity sees an opening, artistic forces are unleashed and surge.
What am I up to? I have pulled out my computer to attempt some editing on the Kantha book. The deadline is fast approaching and it is my goal to finish with the writing this week. Photography will be wrapped up in my studio next week. Image processing will take a while but I may be able to pull that together partially this week as well. Time to focus! The weather certainly helps to promote staying in the studio!
Anna Hergert, Art & Design 