art of the Peace | Issue #6 by imageDESIGN

art of the peace

Layers of Passion

contents 18

Creative Living

Carrie Klukas Three Grande Cache

Cover: Charity Dakin and her painting A Touch of Blue

Wellness

Charity Dakin:

the artbox 9 the BUSINESS of art 10 artists directory 19 where itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all at 22 education & opportunities 24

Artists

Editor: Jody Farrell Editorial Committee: Karen Longmate, Dale Syrota, Carrie Klukas Design, Layout & Advertising: Image Design Contributors: Jody Farrell, Wendy Stefansson, Carrie Klukas Publisher: Art of the Peace Visual Arts Assoc., c/o The Prairie Art Gallery, 10209 99 St., Grande Prairie, AB, T8V 2H3; Ph: (780) 532-8111; art@artofthepeace.ca Printing: Menzies Printers

12 and the Arts

art out there...

Do It

Intuitively

Art of the Peace Visual Arts Association acknowledges the financial assistance of:

City of Grande Prairie Arts Development Fund

Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Peace Country Canada

Art of the Peace makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions.

art out there... Tapestry Commissioned

eaverlodge’s George Henn designed and hooked a tapestry for the County of Grande Prairie’s Family Services as part of a centennial project. The fibre landscape, commissioned by Family Services, took over 200 hours to complete and celebrates the history of family services in the county. It is now a permanent fixture in the municipality. George Henn’s commissioned tapestry.

AOTP Touring Exhibition ome sixty artworks by Peace Region artists, all members of the Art of the Peace (AOTP) Society, toured both sides of the Alberta-BC borders over recent months. The exhibition started in December at The Prairie Art Gallery in Grande Prairie, and from there, went to Dawson Creek and on to the Fairview Fine Arts Centre in Fairview. It was downsized to 20 works before continuing on to Fort Nelson, BC’s Phoenix Theatre. The show exhibited a wide range of styles and subject matter, including Grande Prairie Regional College fine arts student Terry Kazakoff’s Cattle Drive, (left). The Art of the Peace Society came into existence three years ago, and seeks to raise awareness of the visual arts in the BC and Alberta Peace regions. It is responsible for the production and circulation of the Art of the Peace magazine, as well as the website and arts symposium. The touring art exhibition was the first of what AOTP hopes will become an annual event.

Terry Kazakoff, Cattle Drive - Acrylic

art of the peace

Framing the moment

JJ Morgan, Sunflower

rande Prairie photographer JJ Morgan’s work seeks to freeze not only time, but that precious action that will never be repeated. “I want my viewers to feel like they are captured in my moment,” says the young artist. “I love the way I feel when I experience a piece of art. I can’t wait to be on the other end, creating that experience for someone else.” Morgan’s work will be featured in the upcoming Digital Blues exhibition, opening June 7, 2006, at 11302-100 Street in Grande Prairie.

Death by Design

rande Prairie artist-actor Tim Heimdal not only designed the minimalist set for Grande Prairie Live Theatre’s recent production of Jesus Christ Superstar, but was crucified on it. The ever-talented Heimdal stepped in to play Jesus when the production lost its original star.

Grande Prairie artist-actor TIm Heimdal on his own cross in Jesus Christ Superstar. Photo by Paul Pivert, Panda Camera.

Doug Wills, (left), and Tina Martel (centre) address artists at the Peace Liard regional curated exhibition.

“Series” Returns to GPRC Peace Liard Juried Exhibition

outh Peace Community Arts Council, Dawson Creek Art Gallery and the Peace Liard Regional Arts Council were the co-hosts for the recent Regional Juried Art Exhibition which circulates through five northern BC communities on an annual basis. As part of the educational component for the event, Grande Prairie artist and GPRC educator Tina Martel conducted a morning workshop on professionalism in art, documenting and preserving your work, and presenting yourself to galleries and other exhibition opportunities. Jurors Doug Wills, Tina Martel and Sarah Alford chose 20 works from the over 100 pieces submitted. The resulting exhibition was an impressive display of regional talent from throughout the BC Peace area.

he popular “Series” arts workshops program which has run for years out of Red Deer, is returning for its second run in Grande Prairie. A wide range of programs, including jewellery-making, beadmaking, painting, paper and fibre art will run from July 31 to August 4, 2006 in Grande Prairie. The complete “Series” ‘06 booklet is available at Grande Prairie Regional College’s Fine Arts Department and The Prairie Art Gallery.

Congratulations Carmen

rande Prairie artist Carmen Haakstad has received an Alberta Centennial Medal of Honour from the Alberta Foundation for the Arts. The award is in recognition of his contribution to community development and the establishment of The Prairie Art Gallery.

Renald Lavoie (left) and Laval Bergeron with Lavoie’s St. Isodore snow sculpture.

Snow Days in St. Isidore

or St. Isidore sculptors Rénald Lavoie and Laval Bergeron, snow is the medium of choice. Every February, a Carnaval d’Hiver is held in the small French community just outside Peace River, and this year it had a safari theme. Rénald sculpted a lion, seen here, and Laval, a pair of giraffes. The two had just returned from the Carnaval in Quebec City, where they represented Alberta in a team of three which also included Robert Woodburry of Edmonton. There, under Laval’s leadership, they sculpted a piece called “Money”, a barrel of oil with a hand emerging from it handing out $400 cheques to faceless bystanders, while a puzzled farmer looks on! Laval also represented Canada in the international competition there, on another team of three.

Building Starts Next Spring

onstruction of The Prairie Art Gallery and Grande Prairie Public Library’s new digs (right) is set to begin next spring and be completed by the fall of 2008. The complex will include the existing historic Prairie Art Gallery building, and will extend east to house a community hall and additional gallery exhibition space, as well as the new Public Library. Gallery staff is facing the possiblity of organizing exhibitions and programs outside its current home if, at some point during 2007, construction makes it necessary to temporarily relocate. Calgary artist Laura Vickerson’s Sub Urban installation, The Prairiei Art Gallery

The Prairie Art Gallery - Public Library building is set to open in 2008.

PAG Gets Project Grant

he Prairie Art Gallery was recently awarded a project grant for a catalogue of its January 2006 exhibition Sub Urban, by Calgary artist Laura Vickerson. Vickerson, whose work has been exhibited internationally, created an installation around our relationship with our surroundings, both urban and natural. Doug Wills, curator for The Prairie Art Gallery is designing and writing the catalogue. art of the peace

Sharon Moore Foster, (right), AOTP symposium volunteer Shelagh Glibbery, (centre), and Aaron Sorensen stopped into the Beaverlodge Cultural Centre to see the late Eric Bask’s stained glass work, following their visit to Dawson Creek for the Symposium.

Art of the Peace Symposium 2005, Dawson Creek

he Dawson Creek Art Gallery was the host for the 3rd Annual Art of the Peace Symposium, October 14th and 15th, 2005. Saturday morning kicked off with high energy Alberta artist and sculptor Sharon Moore Foster, who focused on lasting art, and creating art in everyday lives. Painter and teacher Laine Dahlen spoke about the relationship between creative expression and the ability to master the technical skill in each medium. Don Pettit, photographer and publisher, spoke on the method of successful marketing and distribution, which is often more difficult for the practising artist to achieve. In the afternoon, writer-director Aaron Sorensen spoke about his experiences making the movie, Hank Williams, First Nation.

Cultural Grant Proposal

Public Meets Gallery

roponents of arts and culture in Grande Prairie spent much of February and early March writing proposals for consideration for a federal grant which could total up to $750,000. The Cultural Capitals of Canada project funds Canadian municipalities looking to celebrate culture and create cultural legacies. Grande Prairie, which, in 2008, will mark its 50th anniversary as a municipality, is hoping the Cultural Capitals program will fund some of the projects. One proposal outlines plans for a grand opening and permanent sculpture unveiling for the new Prairie Art Gallery and the Grande Prairie Public Library.

art of the peace

ommunity arts lovers met in January to discuss future ideas with The Prairie Art Gallery staff and visiting Edmonton Art Gallery director Tony Luppino. Grande Prairie consultant Cheryl King says ideas Luppino touched on in the day-long event included: creating desire, not need; putting ideas and projects “out there” right now; and thinking big when considering future plans and possible partnerships with sponsors and other arts groups. Creating awareness around the pleasures of art, while removing its sometimes elitist tag were among the many other topics addressed.

Menzies 1/2 page - BW

Do It Intuitively By Jody Farrelll

Women in the Arts symposium Vancouver artist Shirley Wiebe, Surrounding, nylon netting installation.

Writer Shakti Gawain has said “The universe will reward you for taking risks on its behalf.” Grande Prairie Regional College’s second annual Women in the Arts symposium speakers each stated in her own way that it’s by bringing our whole self into a place and reacting with all our senses that we achieve what is both important and authentic. Vancouver-based installation artist Shirley Wiebe described the shift that happened in her work once she allowed herself to walk into a space or environment with curiosity and not an agenda. She saw her work reach deeper levels of meaning by investigating a location, and, using materials that either grew there or were found and used in the area, creating an installation that reflected something of both the environment and herself in that space. Wiebe sought to make herself feel connected wherever she was doing installation works. Researching materials used around Dawson City, Yukon, or in Atlin, or Prince George, B.C., she’d get comfortable with the town and its people. She found materials and assistance appeared as she needed them, oftentimes having uncanny connections to the creations she was producing. The wood she’d ordered from Vancouver for the Prince George show had actually been forested near Prince George. The nylon mesh she chose in a playful installation depicting Vancouver Island trees in tutus had been used in a cross-pollination study of that area’s trees. Wiebe credited Peace Region’s environmental artist Peter vonTiesenhausen with giving her the courage to trust her intuition in developing that sense of place and meaning. “Peter has helped me have faith in that vision,” Wiebe said. Mary-Beth Laviolette of Canmore also spoke about the important contributions Alberta women made to the contemporary arts by bringing their personal realities to their work. Laviolette, whose impressive research on the province’s contemporary artists appears in An Alberta Art Chronicle, spoke of how, beginning in the seventies, when both the feminist and civil rights movements were very strong, women changed what was accepted as contemporary art, much of which had emerged from a century of male-dominated “master” techniques. Instead of art for art’s sake, art began addressing women’s sensibilities around social justice, war, domesticity and sexuality.

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Mary Scott, whose work received unheard-of international attention in the eighties, often outraged the conventional art world. Her attitude, according to Laviolette, was to care less about the image’s appearance than its meaning. She’d use her hands, tear at the canvas and cut at her fabric to make a statement. It was this very personal and authentic approach that made her and other Albertan artists’ work important. Canmore filmmaker Leanne Allison, in presenting her documentary on following the Porcupine caribou herd’s epic journey to its calving grounds in Alaska, encouraged young artists to follow their passion. She and husband Karsten had to place a lot of faith in the unknown in making Being Caribou. “You have to do your best, “ she said. “Make what you believe in. Put it all out there, but try not to be too attached to the outcome.”

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Layers of PASSION by Jody Farrell

Three Peace area artists share their love of wood carving

Len Smith Stopping to admire Len Smith’s woodworks at his regular farmers market kiosk may stem as much from his infectious smile as your interest in carving. Smith began wood carving in Barrie, Ontario, where he lived until moving to Grande Prairie nearly 13 years ago. He spent years experimenting with all manner of woodwork, beginning with “blanks,” blocks of loosely prepared forms, and gradually learning sculpture of decoys and characters, as well as intarsia, or carving into wood. Smith’s works speak more of a love for the process than a love of detail. He spends most days in his workshop and two to three evenings teaching. His studio is in his home, but you’ll find him every Saturday morning at the Grande Prairie farmers market selling his works and tools and sharing his love of his art.

Bruce Tolton Bruce Tolton’s bird carvings require a mastery of woodworking and painting skills that can only come with patience and passion for detail.

Bruce Tolton, Snowy Owl - acrylic on tupelo.

Sean Reilly, Willow Ptarmigan - acrylic on basswood.

“You really have to know your anatomy, or all you’re left with is a block of wood on your mantle,” says the Grande Prairie carver. “It doesn’t look good.”

Len Smith, The Hunter - acrylic on basswood.

Hours are spent accurately detailing feathers and talons and painting the newly-carved birds. Still, the work gives him a great sense of tranquility. “Any bad day is gone once you’re carving,” Tolton says.

Sean Reilly Sean Reilly wasn’t long into wood carving when he realized he was less concerned with replicating than with giving a very sensual impression of both the bird he was working on and the wood he’d chosen for the subject. For Reilly, exact replication of the subject equals placing the stuffed bird on display. The Wembley artist’s subjects have a minimalist look to them. A ripple carved into the back of the otherwise sleek crow suggests both that bird’s likeness and its more mythological, dreamlike quality. “I like the high tactility of a piece,” Reilly says. He uses a variety of woods, including oak, and likes the West Coast’s yellow cedar and Ontario’s basswood. Reilly finds the process of carving “incredibly therapeutic. Just the act of peeling off layers and layers of wood takes you to a different place,” he says. art of the peace

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Making the cut: carving tools

ooks on wood carving techniques and all of its tools and accessories cut a pretty wide path. Grande Prairie wood carver and teacher Len Smith warns about spending all kinds of money only to find that your particular woodworking interest has no use for what now fills your basement. “Do not go out and buy a whole set of tools,” Smith advises. “Start with taking a few lessons. Find out what it is you are interested in, and buy only what you need at that time for learning what you are doing.” According to Smith, there are four basic cuts you need to learn in carving, after which “there is nothing you can’t do.” The trick is to practise, practise, practise. Smith is big on having his students do their own work. In his view, the person’s particular interest - be it in carving a blank (a less defined, pre-cut subject); or carving relief-style intarsia, or creating a sculpture - will surface as he or she hones these skills. Smith lists several “good teachers” whose books he uses regularly. Carol Peters is an excellent reference for people interested in woodburning techniques. Judy Gale Roberts is great for intarsia. Other good teachers include Ivan Willock and Eldon Humphries, most of whom can be Googled online. Smith has taken courses from several well-published carvers.

Smith’s best resource for books and accessories is Chipping Away, 808 Courtland Avenue East, Kitchener, Ontario, N2C 1K3. Phone them at 519-7439008 for specific information. To order 888-682-9801 or www.chippingaway.com.

Open Noon to 5 pm, Tuesday to Saturday 10812 103 Avenue 780-835-2697

Smith, always passionate to convert new carving enthusiasts, will let you check out his own ‘06 Chipping Away catalogue at his kiosk at the Grande Prairie Farmers Market. He’s there every Saturday. For Sean Reilly, who uses reference material to develop his own wood carving creations, Game Bird Carving by Bruce Burk was a great resource “right from the get-go.” “I got the most out of Burk’s painting techniques for decoys,” Reilly says. “He uses oils whereas I use acrylics but the information applies to both. His book also has good charts of dimensions (of birds).” While Reilly isn’t as concerned with precise replication as some carvers, he refers to charts to keep his work proportional. “It needs to look balanced,” he explains. An oversized head on a crow may distract the viewer from the overall essence of the bird, which is the core of Reilly’s work. Bruce Tolton, who does realistic representations of birds and decoys, cites The Royal Alberta Museum in Edmonton as an invaluable resource for his very detailed carvings.

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Getting into galleries

Peace nee

t’s one thing to be selling a product we believe in but haven’t made ourselves; quite another to sell our very self as product. Artists’ work is that personal. Rejection feels too much like taking a hit where it hurts most. Public galleries are filled with artist-staff who are aware of how intimidating it can be to approach them requesting an exhibition of your creations. Doug Wills, curator of The Prairie Art Gallery, is always open and eager to see new faces and works. Like most curators, he’s a proponent of change, revelation and fresh new perspectives. “We love having people coming in with their work,” Wills says enthusiastically. Still, with all that goes into choosing and producing, handling and returning an exhibition, it’s best to follow some guidelines. And, while the process might feel a little too left-brained for some, the actual work around making a proposal, just like the research that must accompany an application for a loan or a government grant, goes a long way to helping you uncover and sell both yourself and your product. Exhibition request guidelines for The Prairie Art Gallery ask that you provide a minimum of 10 slides of your work; a biography, and an artist statement of intent, or philosophy. They also require size of artwork, medium, and a personal resume.

You would be surprised at how many applications fail to give the most crucial of details. Sue Cloake Millar, who coordinates Alberta Foundation for the Arts’ TREX travelling exhibitions for The Prairie Art Gallery, laughs at some of the omissions she’s had to cope with. “We get submissions that have no address, phone number, or contact information,” Cloake Millar says. Grande Prairie’s still smallish population and Prairie Art Gallery staff’s commitment to its regional artists generally allows for the eventual unearthing of the talented-but-elusive type, but it’s best not to count on that always being the case. A completed request will always be filed for reference. Currently, Cloake Millar is compiling an artist-bank of Peace Region artists. She wishes to know who is doing what in every facet of the arts. This information is invaluable to her work coordinating and touring exhibitions of original art throughout northern Alberta. While she doesn’t require a full exhibition request, she does want artists to send her at least three slides of their current work, along with a brief artist statement and contact information. Drop into The Prairie Art Gallery for an Exhibition Request Guidelines form, or email Sue Cloake Millar at sue@prairiegallery.com with any questions you might have.

'The Higher Foothills, October' Acrylic Collection of The Hon. Ralph Klein, Premier Of Alberta

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art of the peace 11

WELLNESS and the Arts by Jody Farrell

You don’t have to be an artist to reap the benefits

ob Smith’s Grande Prairie office is more like a large, homey living room, with the sun streaming in on earthtone walls and warm wood flooring. A sprawling bookshelf hosts a library of reference material: music on CDs, books and manuals on wellness, nature, and healing grief. All within an arm’s reach from the big comfy sofa and armchairs. Drums and interesting artifacts, and messages of serenity and hope abound, and yet the space feels open and airy. Smith’s background in adult education and social work set him onto the path of people who had suffered trauma or loss. He’d provided Rob Smith, (above), in his Grande Prairie office; paintings (left and right) created by the author in her work with Smith, whose counselling does not require any previous artistic or creative experience.

public education to a local women’s shelter, and worked with people in a victims assitance program. He eventually developed his own practice around healing through creativity. “Grief work is about loss,” Smith explains. “Loss can have come with death or divorce, but can also involve something less definite; say the loss of meaning or purpose in our life.” Healing what is lost requires giving voice to our pain, our broken heart, he says. This does not generally happen by talking about our experience in a conventional counselling session. This kind of healing is more of a spiritual journey, having to do with our heart and soul. Some think spirituality is only tied to religion, but Smith sees it as exploring what the deepest voice in us - the one that longs for goodness and happiness - has to say. “Most of us who’ve been through trauma can relate to

feeling deep hurt at a core level. There’s some truth to the saying ‘I have a broken heart.’ We need to give that hurt a way to express itself.” Smith is not an art therapist. He finds, however, that creative expression, be it in music or art, poetry and writing, or even gardening, moves a person into the right-brain mode that somehow gives the elusive pain or loss an outlet. No prior creative experience is necessary to produce something from this more symbolic, intuitive side. It’s a comfortable and invigorating experience to be led into. He may invite you to use paints, drums or ink imprinting of your body, depending on what it is Smith and you decide is a good way to approach your grief issues. The results are long-lasting. For some, two or three sessions may answer their needs. The goal for Smith is simply to get to a place that allows us to say what our heart wishes to say, and then to come back and look at that expression with a more left-brain, grounded approach. In what we have created, we find answers, and Smith says these always include some message of hope. “The work not only releases the hurt. It opens a new and hopeful journey. Our heart’s greatest desire is to have a happy life. Creativity taps us into that.”

art of the peace 12

“For many of us, it (the hospital)

creates

level of anxiety. The art somehow transforms us. We are calmed by it.”

- Karen Longmate

level near the hospital cafeteria. Display cubes, featuring three dimensional works such as sculpture, jewellery and pottery, are also on display in and near MacKenzie Place. A retrospective of Grande Prairie potter Susan Williams (above), is exhibited in cubes near MacKenzie Place complex in the city’s Queen Elizabeth II Hospital. Karen Longmate (below) with Brit’s Bike, acrylic, 2003, by Grande Prairie artist Cathy Stafford.

ings reminded him of when he used to ride through the pastures,” Longmate recalls. The exhibition of local artist-carpenter Dale Sales’ paintings depicting farmlife, gave the man back some of his past. His comments gave Longmate a whole new sense of this person she’d only known as a patient. Longmate, visual arts coordinator for the hospital, will often see staff, visitors or patients, stopping to look at the works. Sometimes people discuss their reactions. Other times they appear to be reflecting on something personal that the work may have evoked. Like so much that is produced artistically, including poetry and music, artworks seem to touch something deep inside people, resonating, perhaps, with an experience or feeling they have known. “The hospital is a sensitive and serious place,” Longmate says. “For many of us, it creates a level of anxiety. The art, by contrast, creates a familiar element. It somehow transports the viewer. We can live vicariously through art. We are calmed by it.”

ecently, Karen Longmate found herself standing beside a wheelchairbound patient, admiring one of the original artworks that hung in the hallways of the QEII Hospital in Grande Prairie. “He couldn’t speak, so he used a word board and communicated that the paint-

The QEII Hospital Foundation, with support from Peace Country Health, is responsible for the hospital’s visual arts project. It includes a permanent collection of some 600 original artworks, about two-thirds of which are exhibited throughout the hallways and wards of the hospital. Regional artists’ works are also on loan for exhibitions. Sales’ paintings were hung in the Courtyard Gallery, located on the lower

Longmate is passionate about the role the arts can play in health care institutions. She attended an international conference on partners in health care last June in Edmonton, where the University of Alberta Hospital is renown for its work putting artists on its wards. “They have found that (artist on ward programs) offer people a chance to gather around as a family, even take pictures. That kind of thing is often very sensitive when there is not something other than the patient to focus on,” Longmate explains. And while these kinds of projects may not be currently available in the QEII, the possibilities alone are exciting. “I think that in the hospital, where we often tend to think of being sick and looking for an outside, medical answer, we have the opportunity to introduce the idea of discovering in ourselves what makes us feel better” says Longmate. “If we have accessed something that has come from within and made us feel healthier, more alive, we may then go home and learn how to reintroduce it into our lives there. Hospitals have a captive market for that kind of teaching.”

art of the peace 13

Charity Dakin: Creative Living by Wendy Stefansson

utside, it is a snowy Tuesday morning in February. Inside, I am looking at an accidental still-life: a hunting bow and colourful arrows lean against a wall next to a wooden easel. Clustered on a table nearby are a birch log, a jar full of paintbrushes, and a book of paintings by Frederick Remington. To my left is a deer’s skull and antlers. To my right, are tacked pictures of foxes, and actual fishing lures. Oh, and a computer. It is an eclectic mixture of the timeless and the cutting-edge. These are the tools of Charity Dakin’s trade, and it is her studio in which I am standing. Charity is a young mother, and an accomplished artist from Manning, Alberta. And as it turns out, the deer skull is the relic not only of a hunting trip and a winter’s worth of venison, but also of the subject of her painting, Aspen King. In the painting, the deer looks intently at the viewer, not as prey at predator, but eye to eye; with recognition. There is a connection there. The painting is small, but compelling; the tone of it quiet but eloquent, communicating everything.

Charity Dakin (right), Morning Encounter (below)

Charity grew up on the land, living on farms first in the Fraser Valley, and later in central Alberta. Now, in this small rural community, she is raising her own family. She and her husband have dreams of moving to an acreage, and starting a small hobby farm. When they fantasize about winning a million dollars, Charity talks about having her own chicken coop. She smokes her own salmon, and is working out a recipe for making her own sausages from her venison. Remembering her rural roots, she says: “I spent hours drawing when I was a kid, and I spent even more time actually just looking. You know, watching animals, how they move, their anatomy …. I was always out in the ditches, and in the back fields, slopping around in rubber boots. I just remember being a kid who watches things, and I still watch things now.” This habit of patient watching is evident in the keenly observed quality of her work; the finely rendered details, the ring of truth. When Charity sits down to create a work of art, she begins with numerous pencil sketches. She will try it out in one or more colour

art of the peace 14

schemes using paint; then she will scan various elements into her computer and move them around using Photoshop until she finds the best composition. Along the way, she makes notes to herself, in the margins. It is a laborious and timeconsuming process, but her sketches could pass for finished works of art in themselves. A self-taught artist, Charity describes her education as “a lot of trial and error; looking at the world around me and then looking at my paintings; and playing with the mediums, and seeing how they work.” Her mediums of choice include graphite, pastels and acrylic paints. Her subjects: wildlife, farm animals, local landscapes, and aboriginal people. These are choices that connect her to 150 years of painting on the prairies (think Frederick Remington and Paul Kane), as well “I was always out in the ditchas to other contemporary Canadian artists (think es, and in the back fields, Robert Bateman). More importantly, they are choicslopping around in rubber es that connect her to a growing viewing audience. boots. I just remember being She says: “My art is about responding and reacting to a kid who watches things.” the things that I see around me, and the things that are important to me. And it happens to be something that a lot of other people find endearing, and they like what I do. So I don’t really have to paint for a market; I paint what’s important to me, and what I love.” At the same time, Charity takes nothing for granted in the world of art marketing. She acknowledges: “If you want to make a living out of art, you have to have an element of business and marketing. You have to.” All of her work is professionally reproduced, but she takes charge of as much of the process as possible, right from the digital imaging to the final printing. She prints editions of 50 to 150, for which she has found gallery representation in Peace River and Edmonton. She sells most of her originals privately or through Night of Artists events. Like her life, her art career is a hands-on process. “I don’t really think anybody owes me a living,” she says. Charity’s prints are available at Frameworks Gallery and Claire’s Custom Framing in Peace River, and Birks Art Gallery in Edmonton. You can also find her work online at www.NightOfArtists.com. Halibu - Chalk Pastel (below); sample of preparation and sketches prior to painting; Aspen King - acrylic (bottom right)

Rainbow Junction, Miriam Gair, Watercolour

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“Through the Fence” 41” x 22” oil on canvas

Dale R. Sales Painting from life long experiences, landscapes, portraits, horses and western themes.

876-5432 cell 9807-97 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB drsales@telusplanet.net art of the peace 17

Three Grande Cache Artists

by Jody Farrell

Mountain town panorama keeps them inspired

Evelyn Suter

velyn Suter’s Clusters of Blue is a pretty convincing argument for the monoprint’s contribution to the world of painting and prints. Something in the marks that are added to and subtracted from the work give it a sumptuous textural look that isn’t found in traditional watercolour. Yet, the soft and airy quality that often gives watercolour the edge over more textured paints is still very present. Suter’s own excitement around the process is catchy, and she converted many new enthusiasts at an exhibition in Grande Prairie two years ago. One can almost read in her animated explanation of the sheer mystery of the monoprint process, that she seeks out wonder in life and is willing to risk losing a little control to get it. “It’s that element of surprise I love,” Suter says. She generously shares the process in workshops. This sense of wonder may have influenced her choice to retire to Grande Cache five years ago. Its “pristine views” and a great campaign to get people to relocate drew her there.

Evelyn Suter, Clusters of Blue - watercolour monoprint.

But, like many who are inspired by life and its many mysteries, Suter is hardly the retiring type. She integrated into the community soon after her arrival, discovering Palette Pals, an arts group that meets and exhibits locally. She is currently its past president. Suter credits a photography course she took years ago with giving her a keen sense of composition. “Everything I do is evocative,” she says of her intention in her work. “When it’s successful, it calls to people, and tells them something.”

Joan Beland Joan Beland, The Baneberry - watercolour, 2004.

ike many artists, Joan Beland experimented with paints in her search for the medium that best suited her personality and style. The Grande Cache artist found oils too messy, and while she did like acrylics and had used them for years, she still works in ink and pencil, it was watercolour that best captured her mark.

“I like detail, and like to draw,” Beland says. Watercolours afford her that combination of drawing and colour. They also give the self-professed lover of all things tidy a chance to play around without wreaking havoc. “You can get such a variety of colours without making a mess. They really suit the way I paint.” She loves nature, and while some of her work depicts the town’s mountainous landscape, Beland is finding herself more drawn to nature close-up and still life these days. Her Baneberry watercolour, as well as one of Mount Hamel, is currently on tour with the Alberta Foundation for the Arts TREX Exhibition Out on the Mountain, Deep in the Woods. The show features selected works of The Grande Cache Watercolour Society, and is made available through The Prairie Art Gallery in Grande Prairie. TREX coordinator, Sue Cloake Millar, notes that the intimacy of the baneberry painting is what caught her eye in selecting works for the exhibition. art of the peace 18

Esteemed Grande Cache painter and mentor Robert Guest says Beland consistently does good work. “It’s fresh and original. She’s got a great outdoor spirit.” Beland is humbled by the praise. “I don’t work outside,” she confesses. “I work from pictures I take. I like to be comfortable, and have everything in place. Even my housework must be done.”

James Harvey

artists directory ART CLUBS

s James Harvey casually rattles off contributions to advertising and commercial illustration over his several decades-long career, you can’t help but wonder how he wound up retiring in Grande Cache. The baby face on the Gerber cereal box; the Alberta wild rose design, the Edmonton Oilers and Travel Alberta logos are just a few of the marks he produced in a field that has seen tremendous change over the years. He’d worked in New York, Toronto and Winnipeg before moving to Calgary and Edmonton. He’d worked for the CBC, Imperial Oil, Proctor and Gamble, and Alberta Tourism and saw graphic design and advertising explode into the powerful medium it is today. Harvey and his partner Trudy moved to Grande Cache in 2002 after witnessing the towns spectacular mountain panorama while visiting friends. It’s where he first tried watercolours, having only ever used felt pen in his commercial design work. His paintings still bear that illustrative style; they are unique in their combination of watercolour and felt marker hatchings. His drawing Sharing the News, reminiscent of once popular newspaper and magazine illustrations, tells a layered story of man’s relationship with nature and how tuned out we sometimes are to what is real. “I’m no teacher,” Harvey says dismissively. Still, he has an affinity for getting people to create, and is an active mentor-participant in the Grande Cache Watercolour Society. He was recently made its president and has created a logo and poster for the society’s MayJune show. Grande Cache may remind Harvey of childhood years in Northern Ontario, where his father was a bush pilot James Harvey, Sharing the News, ink on paper. and conservationist. The mountain town seems to have restored some deep-seated passions he alludes to having lost before moving there. He has all kinds of building and art projects on the go, and speaks with conviction about Grande Cache’s potential to house a northern fine arts centre. “It’s a wonderful little town,” he says. “The people here are so neat.”

ARTISTS NORTH Box 279 Sexsmith, AB T0H 3C0 780-568-3334 Barb Exhibit original artworks. Each artist has his or her own style. GRANDE PRAIRIE GUILD OF ARTISTS c/o 9329 - 47 Ave Grande Prairie, AB T8W 2G6 780-538-0616 Louise mlissowa@telus.net Meet weekly to paint at The Prairie Art Gallery, Sept - May, 7 - 10 pm, Tuesdays. Annual membership fee. Opportunities for instruction and exhibition. PEACE COUNTRY SPINNERS & WEAVERS 780-532-1472 Shannon carlshom@telusplanet.net Representing guilds from the British Columbia and Alberta Peace River region. PEACE WATERCOLOUR SOCIETY c/o Box 825 Spirit River, AB T0H 3G0 780-864-3608 Judy; 780-568-4124 Suzanne Peace Country artists focusing on transparent watercolours. Semiannual shows throughout the Peace Country. New members welcome through a juried process.

Vicki Hotte Carol Sletsma Marilyn Snell Vivian Farnsworth Darlene Dautel Lee Salter Louise McNeil Toni Schuler

PRAIRIE FIGURE DRAWING GROUP c/o 10209 - 99 St. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 2H3 780-532-8446 Karen 780-532-2573 Jim Non-instructional, informal group meets weekly at The Prairie Art Gallery, Sept.-May, Thursdays 710pm. Drop-in or monthly fee.

ARTISTS ADRIAN-CLARK, Carol 9338 - 69 A Ave. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 6T3 780-532-0846 www.adrianclark.ca art@adrianclark.ca Realistic renderings of florals, landscapes and still life, in coloured pencil and oil painting. ASHTON, Ed #37, 8910 - 122 Ave Grande Prairie, AB T8X 1P8 780-532-6803 eashton@telusplanet.net www.edashton.com Original artwork in watercolour; Alberta grain elevators, rustic scenes, barns. BEGGS, Lorraine 921 Cornwall Crescent Dawson Creek, BC V1G 1P1 250-784-0173 beggslorraine@hotmail.com Experimental photography, colourful; encaustics, chalk pastel, watercolour. Mixed media. Mostly abstract.

Ruth Lewkowitz Sean Reilly Catherine Nychka Marion Brown Marjorie Henn Peggy Martin Deanna Burchett Lil Larson Joanne Loberg

art of the peace 19

BIBI POTTERY (Bibi Clement) P.O. Box 144 Hythe, AB TOH 2CO 780-356-2424 bibipot@telusplanet.net www.bibipottery.com Studio Potter/Sculptor specializing in wood fire and raku techniques. Director of BICWA Society, International Residency Program BOZARTH, C. PAIGE Sexsmith, AB 780-430-7937 info@cpaigedesign.com www.cpaigedesign.com Contemporary abstracts, landscapes and wildlife art. Acrylic or conté originals. Residential or corporate commissions available. BROWN, Judy Box 825 Spirit River, AB T0H 3G0 780-864-3608 judybrown@robbtech.com My paintings reflect the peacefulness and serenity of our landscape. CLOAKE, Sue 9927 - 86 Park Ave. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 0C9 780-539-7405 Mixed media collage - a combination of mediums creates an intricate abstract textural surface. COCHRANE, Leona 12105 - 95A Street Grande Prairie, AB T8V 5C4 780-538-1208 lkc100@hotmail.com Architectural, botanical and human forms inspire mixed media and oil paintings. COWAN, Corinne RR3, Site 2, Box 6 Grande Prairie, AB T8V 5N3 780-532-6643 den_cor@telusplanet.net Because watercolour lends itself to a wide range of values and freedom of movement on paper, it is my choice of medium. CRAIPLEY, Sheila Box 569 Sexsmith, AB T0H 3C0 780-568-3754 Landscape, acrylic and oils in local landscapes and historic sites.

art of the peace 20

CRICHTON, Holly General Delivery Grovedale, AB T0H 1X0 780-538-9264 holly_crichton@hotmail.com www.nightofartists.com Watercolour painting, equine subject matter. CURRIE, Gordon 1512 - 113 Ave. Dawson Creek, BC V1G 2Z5 250-782-6388 gcurrie@eldoren.com www.watercolorpainting.info Watercolour and mixed media artist - scenic nature works of art. DEMUYNCK, Inez 11121 - 16 St Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4A1 250-782-6363 inez@pris.ca Teacher/Artist specializing in creative watercolour and handbuilt clayworks. DICKSON, Yvonne 10015 - 89 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 2Y9 780-532-1629 Watercolours with a Peace Country theme. DITCH, Valerie Box 882 Grande Prairie, AB T8V 3Y1 780-538-9238 serendipiditygirl9@yahoo.ca Primarily working in watercolour with attention to light and detail. Originals, giclée prints and cards. DIXON, Suzanne Box 124 Pouce Coupe, BC V0C 2C0 850-786-5582 Folk art paintings, pictures, cards. DRONYK, Dymphny 11306 - 102B St. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 2Y2 780-532-8323 dymphny@telus.net www.dynamicdatagp.com Photography, writing, grants, proposals, screenwriting and video production. DUPERRON, Frances 9909 - 92 Ave Grande Prairie, AB T8V 0H7 780-532-2753 Acrylic/oil paintings, landscapes, still lifes.

ENFIELD, Janet Box 815 Wembley, AB T0H 3S0 780-766-2795 jenfield@cablerocket.com Commission work of any subject in oil or acrylic. FARRELL, Jody 8508 - 100 A St. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 3C3 780-538-1499 jody.farrell@gmail.com Paintings, oil, acrylic - mostly landscapes, flowers. GAIR, Miriam Box 7211 Peace River, AB T8S 1S8 780-624-8528 miriamg@wispernet.ca I use semi-abstract form, light, and simplification to create oneness with spirituality and nature. Work in any media but prefer watercolour. GILJE, Lena Box 252 Wembley, AB T0H 3S0 780-505-0873 lkgilje@hotmail.com Corporate, wedding and portrait photography, original artwork, fabric art. GOURLAY, Marilyn Grande Prairie, AB 780-539-3992 mgourlay@telus.net Mixed media, life drawings. I enjoy the creative process. Facilitate art retreats and teach yoga. GREENTREE, Barb Box 41 Grande Prairie, AB T8V 3A1 780-532-6658 barbgreentree@telus.net Artworks emphasizing the Wild Kakwa and Peace Country in acrylics and watercolour. GUEST, Robert Box 1784 Grande Cache, AB T0E 0Y0 780-532-8111 for information Painter in the Symbolist Landscape tradition preferring wilderness and nocturnal subject matter. HAAKSTAD, Carmen 8012-99 St. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 3V1 780-539-4483 carmen@evergreenpark.ca Original art.

HART, Louanne 4611-94 St. Grande Prairie, AB T8W 2G7 780-532-6457 hartlr@telus.net Watercolour originals, prints and cards of local and international subjects. HEIMDAL, Tim 9804 - 102 St. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 2V2 780-532-1995 indigo@cablerocket.com Murals (interior and exterior) commissions, portraits. Acrylic on canvas. Impressionistic. HENN, K. Marjorie Box 262 Beaverlodge, AB T0H 0C0 780-354-2165 ghenn@telusplanet.net Countryside and wilderness themes are my inspiration, watercolour is my main medium. HERBISON, Janis PO Box 126 Hudson’s Hope, BC V0C 1V0 250-783-5534 www.hummingbirdfineart.com Watercolour, pen and ink realistic paintings. Portraits, landscapes and wildlife. Workshops available. HOLLER, Colleen Box 363 Wembley, AB T0H 3S0 780-766-2567 choller@telusplanet.net A variety of watercolour subjects with a view to contrast, light, colour and form. HOMMY, Barry Box 298 Beaverlodge, AB T0H 0C0 780-354-8117 (w) 780-356-3741 (h) Artist in watercolour - local landscapes. HOTTE, Vicki Box 277 Beaverlodge, AB T0H 0C0 780-538-1947 svhotte@telusplanet.net www.vickihotte.com Acrylic paintings and drawings rural subject matter.

KAUT, Donna, BSc, FCA Box 675 Grande Prairie, AB T8V 3A8 780-532-6468 ddakaut@telus.net www.pictureperfectfineart.com “I focus on oil paintings of wildflowers and berries of Alberta.”

MCNEIL, Michele RR2 Site 13 Box 41 Grande Prairie, AB T8V 2Z9 780-538-4760 rpmcneil@telusplanet.net Stained glass with a contemporary twist. “Yours is to dream it. Mine is to create it.”

KLUKAS, Carrie 10818 - 95 St. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 1Z5 780-532-0102 carrieklukas@yahoo.ca Acrylic paintings on board, abstract expressionism.

MULLIGAN, Helena 8709 - 98 St. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 2C7 780-538-2009 Insights, expressions of everyday life in sculptures, drawings and paintings. Commissions welcomed.

LAURIN, Ray 9637 - 113 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 1W4 780-532-5232 With acrylics, I can capture what nature has to offer us which is a panorama of colour. LE CORRE, Lynn 11110 - 95 St. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 1Z7 780-538-4046 skyrock@telusplanet.net Painting in miniature simplifies the landscape to colour and painterly forms. MANHOLT-HOTTE, Sherrie PO Box 626 Wembley, AB T0H 3S0 780-766-3183 sherriemh@cablerocket.com Mixed media painter. Abstract. MAY, Nick 9902 - 96 Avenue Grande Prairie, AB T8V 0M2 780-539-6277 leonora@telusplanet.net www.theartofnickmay.com Award winning nature artist. MCGUINTY, Kristine 12813 - 92 St. Peace River, AB T8S 1W9 780-624-2605 mc_guinty@hotmail.com www,nightorartists.com Harvest Moon Studio: Contemporary photographic images, polaroid emulsion transfers, acrylic paintings and drawings.

PALMER, Valerie ‘Spores n’ More’ Box 6512 Peace River, AB T8S 1S3 780-624-8589 donval@agt.net Mushroom spore prints: images created from natural spores of fungi. PETERS, Rika 10514-103 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 1C7 780-814-7430 rugur@telusplanet.net Oil paintings; impressionistic landscapes. SANDBOE, Suzanne ASA, PWS Box 28, Site 9, RR1 Sexsmith, AB T0H 3C0 780-568-4124 ssandboe@telusplanet.net Realistic landscapes, portraits and scenes from everyday life. Original work and commissions in a variety of mediums. SHILKA JACOBA, Marian Grande Prairie, AB 780-532-7562 mshilka@telusplanet.net “Intuitive painting.” Primarily watercolour, capturing the essence of brief, unforgettable moments in time. SMITH, Len 9110 - 100 St Grande Prairie, AB T8V 2K5 780-539-4608 Relief wood carving, 3D carving, intarsia, woodburning. Custom artwork and instruction.

ST. ANDRE, Vivian Peace River, AB T85 1E7 780-624-4701 iriverdr@telus.net Acrylic and watercolour, abstract and traditional, sculpture and digital imagery. STAFFORD, Cathy 10429-101 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB 780-402-8860 sweetcap@telus.net Abstract/expressionistic oil painting. STEFANSSON, Wendy 10509 - 81 St. Peace River, AB T8S 1M7 780-624-8522 wstef@telus.net Working conceptually, employing photography, acrylic paints and sculptural techniques. STELMASCHUK, Erin Box 1296 Bow Island, AB T0K 0G0 403-545-6794 estelmaschuk@hotmail.com www.erinstelmaschuk.com Skilled in many mediums. Erin works predominantly with copper. Commssions welcome. STOKES, Jim 10417 - 110 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 1S8 780-532-2573 Quality, original paintings, drawings and prints. Contemporary representational work. STROM, Brenda 10205 - 76 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB T8W 1Y6 780-532-8930 strombrenda@hotmail.com Watercolors, oil, monoprints of florals, intimate landscapes and hockey players. SUTER, Evelyn PO Box 1416 Grande Cache, AB T0E 0X0 780-827-5175 evmakimage39@hotmail.com In print-making, there is a real challenge and joy in being part of the ongoing, if not surprising, evolution the method excites.

SWANSTON, Nan RR3, Site 4, Box 6 Grande Prairie, AB T8V 5N3 780-532-6745 nan@imagedesignpros.com Watercolours of landscapes, florals, people and close-ups of nature and still life. SYROTA, Dale 7601 - 102 St. Grande Prairie, AB T8W 1Y7 780-539-4046 hsyrota@cablerocket.com Traditional transparent watercolour painting rendered in a true and unique style. WILLIAMS, Susan susanew@telusplanet.net Functional pottery, over 15 years experience with 8 years of teaching experience. Available to instruct workshops at beginner or intermediate levels.

PHOTOGRAPHY MCKENZIE, Cheryl 9102 - 105 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB T8X 1H7 780-532-6353 cheryl@imagedesignpros.com www.instantimages.com Stock photography site for Peace Country photographers and graphic artists to promote their work. MCLAUGHLIN, Catherine Grande Prairie, AB 780-402-6211 cmclaughlin@telusplanet.net Photography - informal portraits of people and their pets, landscape. Freelance writing, poetry readings.

PETTIT, Don 1204 - 103 Ave Dawson Creek, BC V1G 2G9 250-782-6068 1-866-373-8488 don@peacephotographics.com www.peacephotographics.com Peace Region nature photography, graphic design, publishing, marketing, product development.

www.artofthepeace.ca

art of the peace 21

where it’s all at . . . galleries of the Peace

Peace Region Gallery Events and Exhibitions

Fort Nelson

Students from School District #59 Mixed Media April 18 - May 6, 2006

Manning

Hudson Hope

St. Isidore

Chetwyn

Falher 43

Tumbler Ridge

Valleyview

Midnight at the Oasis May 5, 2006 Kiwanis Arts Centre. This year the theme for the art auction is “Midnight at the Oasis” with food and entertainment of a decidedly Arabian flavour. Tickets are available at the art gallery and Picture It for $20 each. Gordon & Holly Perret May 8 - June 10, 2006 South Peace Art Society In the Summertime June 12 - July 31, 2006 Susan Brandoli Wild Western Narrative August 29 - September 23, 2006

Grande Cache

Emily Mattson & Karl Mattson The Expedition September 26 - November 11, 2006 Please check our website or phone the gallery for a complete schedule of 2006 exhibits and events.

BEAVERLODGE, ALBERTA • Beaverlodge Cultural Centre 512 - 5 Ave. Beaverlodge, AB T0H 0C0 780-354-3600 (phone & fax) Hours: Tues. - Fri. 1 pm - 5 pm Sat. & Sun. 1 pm - 4 pm Gallery, gift shop and tea room.

Exhibits & Events The Swallow Family Show & Sale April 30 - May 26, 2006 Beaverlodge Regional High School Art Students’ Show May 28 - June 16 Alberta Foundation for the Arts Travelling Exhibit Out on the Mountains, Deep in the art of the peace 22

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. Woods June 18 - June 30, 2006

• Dawson Creek Art Gallery

Adrian Town Show & Sale July 2 - July 28, 2006

101 - 816 Alaska Avenue Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4T6 250-782-2601 www.dcartgallery.ca

Natures Gallery Show & Sale July 30 - August 25, 2006

The Gallery and Northern Treasures Giftshop are open 9 am to 5 pm daily from May to September.

Tim Heimdal Show & Sale August 27 - September 29, 2006

Year round, artist run centre; gift shop; 13 exhibits per year; art rental; education programs.

Teressa Hill & Shaun McPherson Show & Sale October 1 - October 27

Exhibits & Events Time Out for Seniors Program Exploring Art March 28 - April 15, 2006

FAIRVIEW, ALBERTA • Fairview Fine Arts Centre 10801-103 Ave. Fairview, AB T0H 1L0 780-835-2697; fax 780-835-5561 www.fairviewfinearts.com finearts@telusplanet.net Hours: Tues. - Sat. 12 pm - 5 pm Gallery, fine arts gift shop and education programs.

Exhibits & Events Heather McNair Show & Sale May 6 -20, 2006

Artists at School Show May 27 - June 3, 2006 Artists North Show & Sale June 10 - July 1, 2006 Kid’s Fest - Childrens’ Festival June 17, 2006 Members’ Summer Exhibit Show & Sale July 8 - August 5, 2006 Life Near Gjo Haven AFA Travelling Show August 12 - 26, 2006 Fairview Ag Society Quilting & Weaving Show & Sale September 2 - 23, 2006 Tailgate Party September 23, 2006

tourism@grandecache.ca www.grandecache.ca Summer hours May - October 9 am - 6 pm, daily Wildlife and historical displays, art gallery and gift shop.

Peace Watercolour Society Show & Sale October 21 - November 4, 2006

FT. ST. JOHN, B.C. • Sonlight Gallery 9312-100 St. Ft. St. John, B.C. V1J 3X4 250-785-9799 sonlight@telus.net Art, framing and home decore. ‘Get the Big Picture.’

GRANDE CACHE, ALBERTA • Grande Cache Tourism & Interpretive Centre Home of the Palette Pals Art Club Highway 40 South Box 300 Grande Cache, AB T0E 0Y0 780-827-3300

Grande Cache Watercolour Society Show & Sale May 20 - June 3 Palette Pals Art Show & Sale Spring 2006 Metis Culture & Heritage Travelling Exhibition Proud Traditions April - June 3, 2006

Capture the Beauty of the Peace May 3, 2006 Contest ends with the announcement of the winners at a special reception. Open to the public.

Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour Limitless Potential GPRC Fine Arts Button Show All Schools/All Art April 7 - May 14, 2006

Lower Level, QEII Hospital 10409 - 98 St. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 2E8 780-538-7585 Original works by local artists. In affiliation with the QEII Foundation.

Exhibits & Events GALLERY

GRANDE PRAIRIE, ALBERTA 9904 - 101 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 0X8 780-814-6080 www.gparts.org Check our website for current information about our education programs, drop-in studios, artist run studios and cafe.

• Forbes and Friends 9918A - 100 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 0T9 780-513-1933; fax 780-513-1949 Gallery of Alberta crafts. Pottery, glass, jewellery, accessories, hand painted silk, home decor.

• Picture Perfect Frame & Gallery 9934 - 100 Ave. Grande Prairie, AB 780-539-4091; fax 780-539-4554 picperf@telusplanet.net www.pictureperfectfineart.com Artists supplies and custom framing. Local artwork, prints and reproductions. Home decore.

Be Included!

Exhibits & Events

• Queen Elizabeth II Hospital, The Courtyard Gallery

Exhibits & Events

• Centre for Creative Arts Kerry and Ann Shatz, Lee Ann Jones and Constance Davidson Show & Sale September 30 - October 14, 2006

Exhibits and Events

Nature’s Gallery April - May A.F.A.Travelling Exhibition Colored Fields and Letters June - September Lynne Lecorre September - October SHOWCASES Harry Lehners Collections of handmade implements April - May My Grandfathers Things June - September Minature Car Collection October - November

• The Prairie Art Gallery 10209 - 99 St. Grande Prairie, AB T8V 2H3 780-532-8111; fax 780-539-9522 info@prairiegallery.com www.prairiegallery.com Class A gallery, education programs, art rental and gift shop.

Marsha Kennedy James Ulrich Children’s Interactive Exhibition Spot the Art May 19 - June 18, 2006 House & Garden Tour & Gala June 16 - 17, 2006 McNaught Festival July 21 - 23, 2006 David Hoffos Ava P. Christl Childrens Interactive Exhibition June 29 - September 3, 2006 John Hall Duane Linklater Artists North GP Teachers September 8 - October 15, 2006 Tempt Your Palette \October 21, 2006

PEACE RIVER, ALBERTA • Frameworks Custom Framing & Gallery 9903 - 100 Ave. Peace River, AB T8S 1S4 780-624-1984; fax 780-624-1984 Custom framing and ready-made framing supplies. Original artwork, prints, posters, photographs, pottery, and other local handicrafts.

• Your name in the gallery directory and on the website • Exposure for your events and exhibits throughout the region • Magazines for your gallery visitors and customers

visit www.artofthepeace.ca for more information art of the peace 23

BEAVERLODGE, ALBERTA Beaverlodge Cultural Centre Ongoing programs in pottery, stained glass, batik, weaving, acrylic, oil and watercolour painting classes for a variety of ages. Please call Sue, 780-354-3600 for dates and details. Gallery exhibition and gift shop sales opportunities are available. Please call Sue at 780-354-3600 for further information.

DAWSON CREEK, B.C. Dawson Creek Art Gallery Peace Country Summer School of the Arts July and August 2006 For details on these and other courses and registration information phone 250-782-2601 or e-mail dcagchin@pris.bc.ca. Opportunities for exhibition in the gallery are available. Guidelines for exhibitions can be viewed at www.dcartgallery.ca.

Northern Lights College The College offers a one-year program, leading to a graduation certificate in the Visual and Graphic Arts, to prepare the student for a wide variety of career opportunities. In addition, a two-year program is also offered leading toward an Associate of Arts Diploma. The primary focus is to build a portfolio for job preparedness or to continue education in another institution. Phone 250-782-5251 for information.

FAIRVIEW, ALBERTA

information, check out our website at www.gparts.org or contact us at info@gparts.org. You can also call us at 780-814-6080.

Courtyard Gallery, Queen Elizabeth II Hospital For information about exhibitions contact Karen at the QEII Foundation office 780-538-7583. Display cubes (showcases) are also available for collections or 3-dimensional art.

Grande Prairie Regional College

The Fine Arts Department Offers students a wide range of career and learning opportunities in the Fine Arts. These include Diploma, University Transfer programs, and courses in Music, Art, and Drama. Students in all programs may also fulfill their Fine Arts option requirements with FAD credit courses. Non-credit Visual Arts courses include drawing, painting, digital arts, and photography.

The Prairie Art Gallery PD Days These great hands-on workshops will allow the teacher or art lover to learn a new technique to teach or enhance their own work. Saturdays 1 - 4 pm Studio & Art Mentors For children 6 + years. Painting on Location Explore and paint Klusken Hills June 10, 2006, 10 am - 5:00 pm

Call the Centre at 780-835-2697 or email finearts@telusplanet.net for program details and registration information.

Seniors Art Program Tuesday mornings at The Gallery beginning September 2006.

Centre for Creative Arts For information and up to date class art of the peace 24

Robert Guest Gallery, Picture Perfect Frame & Gallery

TREX The Prairie Art Gallery is compiling a bank of artists throughout the Peace Region. This is a great opportunity for the Gallery to become more familiar with the artists in the

Snap Gallery

education & opportunities

Fairview Fine Arts Centre

GRANDE PRAIRIE, ALBERTA

Art After Dark A great program where the public is welcome to take in a session on an art. The ninety minute sessions cover everything from art history to art demonstrations. Sessions begin September 2006, Monday evenings from 7 - 8:30 pm.

Masters in the Classroom Jody Farrell, artist and teachergives a history and easy workshop on some of the great artists including Matisse and Picasso.

region and what they are doing. Submit your name and contact information with a brief artist statement, no more than 150 words, and a maximum of 3 images which gives an overview of your work. Please note that this is not considered an exhibition proposal. Artist Bank Files The Prairie Art Gallery 10209-99 street Grande Prairie, AB TV 2H3 Attn: Sue Cloake Millar Please contact The Prairie Art Gallery for furthur information about these and other programs the gallery offers.

Red Deer College Visual Arts Series Series in Grande Prairie is returning July 31 to August 4. For information call Anne Brodie at 403-3423504 or anne.brodie@rdc.ab.ca. Classes include: - Abstract Painting workshop - Papermaking - Image Transfer for Paper and Fibre Artists - Face Figures in Water Media - Mixing it Up - Achieving Impact in Your Water colour - Low Tech Jewellery Casting - Throwing and Altering on the Potter’s Wheel - Glass Beadmaking

Robert Guest Gallery is available for exhibitions - call Allan at 780539-4091 for information.

OTHER OPPORTUNITIES

The Society of Northern Alberta Print Artists (SNAP) has as its mandate the promotion, facilitation and communication of printmaking as an artistic medium. - Snap’s printshop provides print makers with the ability to produce work in a professional and safe environment. - Community programs provide specialized printmaking programs for all ages. - Memberships available. - Annual call for submissions for exhibition programming for 2008. Deadline: September 1, 2006 - Accepting proposals for ongoing store front fundraising sales space. 50% of sales support SNAP’s programming. Changes bi-monthly. For more information visit www. snapartists.com or call 780-4231492.

The Visual Arts Association of Alberta An inclusive arts service organization mandated to provide support, services and advocacy for all level of visual artists in every media in the province of Alberta. Become a member and enjoy the benefits. For more information call toll free: 1-866-421-1731 or visit www.visualartsalberta.com

Alberta Craft Council Join one of Canada’s leading craft arts organizations and start reaping benefits today! For more information toll free in Alberta: 1-800-362-7238 or visit www.albertacraft.ab.ca

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The Last Word Art Heals 3PECIALIZING IN HANDCRAFTED WOOD FURNITURE EXQUISITE HAND BLOWN GLASS EXPRESSIVE ART PHOTOGRAPHY METAL WORKS AND GREAT GIFT IDEAS

oogle â&#x20AC;&#x153;healing artsâ&#x20AC;? and you will find over 20 million available sites. The concept not only includes

such physical practices as massage and reiki therapies, but the traditional arts, including music, poetry, and visual arts and their particular health benefits. Most artists recognize that at some level, their work feeds their well-being. But slowly, we are beginning to tap into its effect on its viewers or participants. Everyone has a story about hearing a song, seeing a painting or happening upon a particularly attractive house or window display and its immediate pleasurable effect. What is happening as part of our growing desire for a sense of peace and well-being, is that we are identifying the significant role the arts plays in that goal. There will always be naysayers who see art as unimportant. It is the nature of the arts to gently cajole and comfort, to peek out from a wall, or to waft musically down the street. Their soothing and healing qualities are not always immediately recognized and will only become so with direct and conscious support by practitioners and institutions seeking to restore not only physical, but mental and spiritual health among workers and visiting clients.

THERE S ONLY ONE

This issue looks at two ways in which the arts are be 3TREET %DMONTON !LBERTA 4 - ( 0HONE WWW TUGALLERY CA

ing introduced with a purpose to restore and rejuvenate a spirit of hope and happiness. These insights into the healing side of art may foster a widely supported effort at reintroducing it into our lives, our education, and our culture. Jody Farrell, Editor, Art of the Peace

art of the peace 26

“My process”, sounds odd, doesn’t it? It’s like a magic alchemistic formula of transforming layers of paint into a painting. Actually it takes many layers of paint alternately scratched back into the board using sandpaper. This continues until the work resonates with me. Chiaroscuro or the play between light and dark always tends to happen. It becomes part of the evolutionary and transformative process, like a metaphor for my life. Always a ray of hope shining through.

Carrie Klukas

In The Garden With Horse And Rider, 4’ x 5’ art of the peace 27

June 16 & 17

H o u se & Garden Tour & Gala July 21 - 23

M c N aught Art Celebration on Main October 27

Opening: Friday April 7 at 7:30 pm

U P C O M I N G

Te m pt Your Pal ette

April 7 - May 14

E X H I B I T I O N S

A r t Auction

U P C O M I N G

April 29

E V E N T S

See art. Good art. C a n a d i a n S o c i e t y o f P a i n t e r s i n Wa t e r c o l o u r Grande Prairie Regional College All Schools/All Art May 19 - June 24

Opening: Friday May 26 at 7:30 pm

Marsha Kennedy James Ulrich Childrens Interactive Exhibition June 29 - Sept. 3

Opening: Thursday June 29 at 7:30 pm

David Hoffos Av a P. C h r i s t l Childrens Interactive Exhibition Sept. 8 - October 15

Opening: Friday September 15 at 7:30 pm

John Hall Duane Linklater Artists North G P Te a c h e r s

The Prairie Art Gallery w w w . p r a i r i e g a l l e r y . c o m

10209 - 99 Street Grande Prairie, AB (780) 532 - 8111