ISLANDARTS M AG A Z I N E Spring 2019• Vol. XII • Issue I
www.islandartsmag.ca
Feature Artist
Marla Thirsk
Richard Alm Asks Why do Paintings have to be Flat?
Quadra Island Annual Studio Tour - June 1 - 2
Some have found the workshop helped them grieve lost loved ones. Others have become their family’s chroniclers – in paintings done with Pearce’s limited palette of four colours plus white, using a 1 1/2-inch house painter’s brush. And some are doing pencil portraits, using Pearce’s scribble technique, which involves one pencil, no eraser, and a gradual layering of texture to create the right shapes in the right places in the right greyscale.
Pearce loves to help students overcome their fear of the portrait and accomplish something they didn’t think they could pull off.
But they do, class after class, which inspired Pearce to organize About Face. “I’m really proud of all the work and effort my students have put into their paintings. I want to show them off – and to show that portraits are indeed achievable.”
Pearce, whose technique was inspired by the Impressionists, teaches his students to avoid trying to create perfection through photorealism.
“Indicate, don’t illustrate,” he says. “Absolute definition of anything can take the magic out of a painting. Give just enough detail to imply rather than to state.”
ABOUT FACE: Portraits by Nicholas Pearce and Friends by Deborah Pearce
“Portrait painting,” opines New York art teacher Marvin Mattelson, “isn’t brain surgery. It’s much more difficult.”
Pshaw, retorts North Saanich art teacher Nicholas Pearce, who, with 35 of his students, plans to dispel that myth with their About Face portrait show at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney, running March 29 through 31. “A portrait is like every other painting – a collection of colours and shapes,” Pearce says. He does admit, however, that tackling a portrait carries risks that a landscape does not. “A tree won’t complain that its mouth isn’t right.”
This is the second time Pearce and his students will have filled the Bodine Hall – the space occupied by the Sidney Fine Art Show. The first show was mainly flamenco dancers and nudes. But since then, more and more of Pearce’s students have wanted to paint portraits. So Pearce designed a new weekend workshop: the Portrait Intensive. 2
His goal is to help students capture their subject’s spark. He says a portrait works when it morphs from an image of a person’s features to a sense of the person’s being. “You don’t see an eye; you see a soul shining out through an eye.”
Each portrait, or group of portraits, will come with a story so the viewer can learn who the subject is and why the work was created. Visitors will be able to watch demonstrations, sign up for classes, or commission portraits done by Pearce or one of his students.
Pearce believes artists want to paint portraits because of the challenge involved, and the need for connection through art. But most important, he says, it’s the feeling for the person they’re painting.
“When we paint a portrait of someone we care about, it’s an act of love.” ~ Location: Mary Winspear Centre, Bodine Hall 2243 Beacon Ave W, Sidney Admission is Free Friday, March 29, 10 am to 9 pm Saturday, March 30, 10 am to 7 pm (opening ceremony, 7 to 9 pm) Sunday, March 31, 10 am to 4 pm www.pearcepaintings.com • 778 426-0150
www.islandartsmag.ca
Showcasing Western Canadian Artists Spring 2019 • Volume XII • Issue I
ISSN 1918-252X Island Arts Magazine
Published By:
this issue 12 Feature Artist
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Marla Thirsk © 2019 Susan Schaefer, Artist All photographs taken by S. Schaefer unless otherwise noted. All rights reserved. No part of this publication including photographs and advertisements may be reproduced by any means for public or private use without prior written permission from Susan Schaefer Articles and opinions expressed in the Island Arts Magazine are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the publisher. The publisher assumes no liability. PM # 41840042 RETURN UNDELIVERABLE ITEMS TO YOUNG AT ART 701 ERMINESKIN AVENUE PARKSVILLE BC V9P 2L4
(250) 586-5510
www.islandartsmag.ca
14 Stretching Giclées Wendy Carmichael
15 Workshops and Classes 19 What’s Happening at Coast Collective
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22 Marketplace Follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/pages/Island-Arts-Magazine
Look For the Summer issue • June 2019 Deadline for Editorial & Advertising: April 21st Spring 2019
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New Gallery Opens in Powell River’s Historic Townsite District
Located in the carefully restored Powell River Stores, Turadh Fine Art is one of multiple new businesses to be found under one roof in the newly opened ‘Townsite Public Market’.
Owned and operated by Powell River artist, Anna May Bennett. “Turadh is a Scots Gaelic word meaning a break in the clouds between rain’. I was born and raised (and studied art) in Scotland. I left in 2000 for Vancouver on a holiday and never returned!”, says Bennett.
Turadh Fine Art offers carefully curated artworks in a variety of media from a number of local and BC artists. The gallery is also the primary dealer for Anna May Bennett’s original oil paintings and fine art reproductions.
Turadh Fine Art 108-5831 Ash Avenue Powell River, BC, V8A 4R5 604-223-4178 turadhfineart@gmail.com www.facebook.com/turadhfineart Instagram@turadhfineart
DAVID
NETTERVILLE Comox Valley Artist
find David’s Work on www.artfinds.me
250-338-0002
email: david.netterville@telus.net
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www.islandartsmag.ca
Hummer
Kelly Deakin
ATTENTION ARTISTS:
Ucluelet BC
Gridwalls, Displays & Packaging Perfect for your Art Shows
openwings.ca 250-266-2214
810 Shamrock Street, Victoria, BC 250-388-4123 • 1-800-964-1281 Email sales@matthewsdisplay.com www.matthewsdisplay.com
Wonders of Openwings Art by Kelly July 10 – 28, 2019 Artifact 84 Orchard Street New York, NY
Heather Brown • artist - potter
One of a kind pyrographic art!
www.heathermarybrown.ca ~ 250-956-4629
openwings.carter61@gmail.com Facebook@westcoastkellycarter
905 Ravenhill Rd. Port McNeill, BC V0N 2R0
Patterns and Natural Design by John Warden
On one of the boulders bordering the river at the Sooke Potholes, I saw a design that I thought looked like an aurora, or maybe even the Milky Way. What an amazing pattern, I thought to myself as I pressed the shutter release on my camera.
Curious about what had caused the pattern, I sent a copy of my photograph to the Earth and Ocean Sciences people at the University of Victoria. Their reply: striations and weather discolouration. Just lines and colours on a rock. Yet my artist’s eye, seeking to makes sense out of what I was observing, came up with the Milky Way.
taking the time to look, I also saw the little plant in the foreground and the scattering of blue flower petals. Not just a photograph. Here, is a story.
Bibliography: Brantingham, P., & Brantingham, P. (1999). Studies on Crime and Crime Prevention. National Swedish Council for Crime Prevention, 8(1).
You can see more of John’s artwork at: www.facebook.com/JWardenphotography
I was reminded of the words I’d read years ago by Patricia and Paul Brantingham, professors of Computational Criminology at Simon Fraser University. The human brain after all, remains the most powerful pattern recognition engine available. Their comment was made in relation to the analysis of crime patterns. It also applies though to the natural designs and patterns that I see out in nature. Looking for pictures among the rocks at the potholes that day, my mental search engine came up with… the Milky Way. Maybe you don’t see it. That’s okay, it’s what I saw. And, because I was
Spring 2019
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17th Annual Quadra Island Studio Tour
Mark your calendars for June 1st & 2nd Discover the amazing works of more than 30 artists while touring beautiful Quadra Island.
Enjoy the vast array of artistic styles and mediums, ranging from pottery, fused glass, painting, sculpture, printmaking, pencil art, fibre art, carving, photography, and so much more.
Appreciation for any artwork is enhanced by the opportunity to talk to the artist and learn about their techniques and influences. Many of the studios have demonstrations throughout the weekend and you can see how the work on display has been created.
Splendid scenery and creativity is a great combination, and Quadra Island is rich in both. The scenery inspires many artists who call Quadra home, and it also draws visitors from around the world to soak up its beauty and enjoy the recreation. Quadra Island is situated in the Discovery Islands, just a ten minute ferry ride from Campbell River.
More details and a list of where to purchase ticketss visit www.quadraislandarts.com
Judith Tait
Terry Phillips
Specializing in Custom Longarm Quilting & Textile Art
250-285-3896 Quadra Island BC
Paintings, Pet Portraits, Murals quadrapaintlady@gmail.com
hopespringstudio.blogspot.ca
Maureen Maryka - Visual Artist Studio/Gallery open year-round on the Quadra Island Studio Tour
For Galleries and Shows visit: www.marykastudios.com • 250-285-2547 6
Quadra Island, BC. 250 285 3040
www.islandartsmag.ca
One of the “Top 25 to Watch in 2018” – Daina Ashbee’s Serpentine presented by Crimson Coast Dance Society
Daina Ashbee returns to her hometown of Nanaimo to perform her riveting installation performance, Serpentine. Presented by Crimson Coast Dance, Serpentine depicts liberating strength within the intimate performance space of the Nanaimo Art Council Gallery; evoking endurance in both performer and spectator.
Ashbee uses simple imagery in order to allow the work to resonate with many viewers. “Sometimes things need to be insisted upon, and I believe repetition is powerful because it insists, because we remember and we absorb. The body is powerful and Serpentine allows one body to speak - to occupy space - and our attention, over and over, insistently revealing the enormous strength of the interpreter” - Daina Ashbee
Serpentine will be performed at the Nanaimo Art Council Gallery, 78 Wharf Street, on April 16th and 17th at 7:30 PM, with an audience-to-artist talk to follow. Suited for mature audiences. For more info. visit crimsoncoastdance.org/serpentine.
SUSAN SCHAEFER
susan-schaefer-fine-art.ca
About Crimson Coast Dance Society: We are a non-profit charitable organization based in Nanaimo, BC that assists the development and support of dance creations, productions, performances and educational opportunities at both grassroots and professional levels in central Vancouver Island.
SEEKING GALLERY REPRESENTATION 250-586-5510 • Parksville BC email: susan@youngatart.ca
Photo by: Adrian Morillo
Spring 2019
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Diana Dean, RCA
April 1 - 27th @ TOSH, Qualicum Beach Opening Wednesday April 3rd 2:00pm
“Take Me Away” oil on canvas 64” x 32”
www.dianadean.com
If Bees are Few...
An Art Exhibit on the Theme of Honeybees
If Bees are Few... is an informative and exciting exhibition on the theme of honeybees. Four West Coast artists present a diverse collection of works, inspired by their common respect for the honeybee, and a deep concern for current threats to their survival.
The artists are: Gordon James (Quadra Island, BC) - printmaker Kathryn Manry (Quadra Island, BC) - painter Marsha Ross (Victoria, BC) - sculptor
The title of the show refers to a poem by Emily Dickenson that celebrates bees. The artwork captures the enchantment of bees, laments their vulnerability, and addresses the implications of a future with too few bees.
If Bees are Few... has been touring galleries in BC and Alberta, and is next going to be shown at The Old Schoolhouse Gallery in Qualicum Beach from April 29 to May 25, 2019. The opening will be May 1 at 2 pm.
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www.islandartsmag.ca
Richard Alm asks WHY DO PAINTINGS HAVE TO BE FLAT?
My TOSH exhibition May 27 - June 22 is a 17 year retrospective of transitioning into retirement and the start of my final career as a maker of art. The first few years were spent re-learning the craft of fine art painting, left over from university days. My career trajectory also helped in the transition. I had, over time, invented 4 different commercial products which were all visually appealing, working pieces of art.
After completing about 120 paintings of various sizes, I was juried in as an active member of The Federation of Canadian Artists. It gave me an opportunity to be critiqued by Robert Genn at the Granville Island FCA Gallery. He challenged me to "purchase 300 - 11" x 14"canvases, go to my "room" (studio) and paint them. He said "when you finish those, you will have a style people will recognize" We kept in touch. He was right! When I finished #178 years later he wrote one of his newsletters about my work and said they were leaping off the canvas and to go larger. Most of the 11" x 14" in this show were from that period. See if you can notice the various styles that emerged. As a clue the "Lionsgate Bridge" was my first painting in 34 years.
However, just prior to the Genn episode, with my background in sculpture and product design, I had begun to question the age old tradition of painting on a two dimensional flat surface. Canvas can be stretched many ways. Stretcher bars don't have to be straight! I tested an idea!
I began by fabricating new structured stretcher bars in washboard or angled shapes top and bottom only and measured the space between the curves or angles. I transferred the measurements of the multi shaped surfaces to a flat stretched canvas. I then created a grid, painted the canvas and stretched it vertically only.
The piece shown here is Neo-Spatialist#4 and joins 9 other structured pieces which are my focal point of this show. All of them require the individual to actively participate in viewing the work by walking past slowly and looking at it from both sides.
The closest thing I could find to these structured canvas creations was a movement in the late 1940's called the Spatialists. They stated "we refuse to accept science and art as two distinct phenomena". So, with respect, I refer to these pieces as my renaissance of Neo Spatialism. I look forward to seeing other artists expand on the process. Why does canvas have to be flat? Enjoy the viewing experience as I've enjoyed the creative journey.
Spring 2019
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Brian Buckrell ~ Comox Valley Artist
For Galleries and Workshops visit:
www.BrianBuckrell.com
North Island College English instructor wins national poetry prize
NIC English instructor Jordan Scott recently won the 2018 Latner Writers’ Trust Poetry Prize, recognizing his body of work and contributions to Canadian poetry. The $25,000 national poetry prize recognizes a Canadian poet for outstanding mastery in the art of poetry. Margaret Atwood, Pierre Berton, Graeme Gibson, Margaret Laurence and David Young founded the Writers’ Trust of Canada in 1976 to ensure Canadian writing continues to thrive.
“The award came as a complete surprise,” said Scott. “It’s humbling to be recognized in this way – for a body of work – it’s beyond anything I ever imagined.”
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bbuckrell@shaw.ca
Scott began writing poetry in grade school and the support he received when he was starting out inspired him to teach.
“I really enjoy my interactions with students,” he said. “I was fortunate to always have great mentors and I want to continually honour that patience, guidance and kindness.” Scott hopes to encourage students, especially aspiring writers, to study and write poetry.
Christiana Wiens, Media Liaison, North Island College O. 250-334-5280 | M. 250-218-4097 christiana.wiens@nic.bc.ca
www.islandartsmag.ca
April 25-28, 2019 Vancouver Convention Centre
Western Canada’s Largest International Art Fair featuring over 100 artists and galleries from all around the world
Art that Reflects the Spirit of the West Coast Artwork by Elizabeth Cross
To get your tickets visit www.artvancouver.net
Email Blasts
If you have a message or an art related announcement that you would like to promote, we can send out an Exclusive E-mail Blast to the members on our mailing list. Cost $65 + gst. Contact Island Arts Magazine.
"Harbourmaster', artist Marla Thirsk, 24" x 38"
Reflecting Spirit Gallery Inc. - Open Daily #8 1620 Peninsula Rd., Ucluelet, BC
250-726-2422 • 855-726-2420 www.reflectingspirit.ca reflectingspiritgallery@gmail.com
KEN KIRKBY DRAW Gallery is pleased to open our 2019 Season with Spring into ART! "
Canadian Artist er t n i a P
A group exhibit from Feb. 28th to April 19th
“How are we connected to the Natural world around us as well as to the nature within us?”
Mix & Mingle Reception Friday Mar 15th from 6 – 8 pm.
This is an exhibit of paintings, photographs, mixed media, glass and copper featuring work by local and Island Artists such as Doug Blackwell aka SockeyeKing, Jacques De Backer, Cecil Dawson, Lucas Chickite, John Hofman, Pamela Holl Hunt, Perry Johnston, Jillian Mayne, Ann McIvor, Todd Robinson, Sue Thomas, Perrin Sparks, Ariane Terez, Nancy Wilson, Gordon Wilson among others. Visit us Online www.drawgallery.com and on Location at the corner of Melrose & 8th Ave in the dynamic Alberni Valley or Call 855-755-0566.
Spring 2019
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Marla Thirsk - 'Ucluelet's Artist'
Honouring, 46 x 36”
Marla Thirsk lives on the extreme West Coast of Canada in Ucluelet BC. She is recognized for her paintings and her 'fearless' approach to Art by working in many mediums and genres. Never without a sketchbook in hand, Marla is constantly drawing and noting ideas for her next painting. You are often refered to as Ucluelet’s Artist? What has kept you there for the past 30+ years?
You know, I can’t recall exactly when that moniker got applied to me….a long while ago now. I’ve been involved in the Arts out here, and being a part of PRAS for 25 years. I’ve organized special arts events, painted most of the murals around town, designed posters for pretty much most of the Festivals; that I was the person folks came to for any questions or information or just wanting to make something happen artistically. Somewhere along the way I got called “Ucluelet’s Artist”, which I am proud of.
Tell us about “Disconnect” and how that piece impacted your career?
I attended an opening at Sooke Fine Arts Show and saw a painting that completely mesmerized me. It was of a woman in a bathing suit, It had a very 1950’s look to her and it inspired me greatly. I recalled that I had a collection of old photos of my mother who was extremely photogenic. She had died when I was in my early 30’s and I hadn’t looked at those pictures since.
lications and won. To date it is the one painting that gets me the most recognition and has put me on the ‘Art Map’, so to speak. Being a full time artist can often be challenging. What has kept you true to your passion?
My father used to quip that he believed I had been born with a paintbrush in my hand as art was what I constantly did. It took me until I was in my 40’s to be serious about it. There is a huge backstory here about all the things that sidelined me but throughout all that chaos, I still did art. I just never believed I was good enough.
They opened a flood of memories. We had a tortured relationship. When she passed away, unexpectedly from a terrible and rare disease, much was left unresolved between us. Paintings poured out of me. All the strangeness of that time came out onto the canvas.
Fearless, 42 x 34”
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I put these paintings into the Mark Penney Gallery and they started to sell. ‘Disconnect’ went into the 2010 Sooke Show and won the Dianne Farris Juror’s Award. The image was submitted to various pubwww.islandartsmag.ca
Disconnect, 32 x 36”
As a member of the Pacific Rim Arts Society, how do you feel that the organization has helped you as an artist?
Tide’s Out, 34 x 36”
When I came back to Ucluelet after a few years absence, I involved my self in anything that was art. I did posters. I painted boats. I painted signs. I painted murals. I drew illustrations. I organized art events. I entered every show I could get to. I taught classes. Etc. etc. etc. I made my own art life. It has been a lot of lean times and I most certainly have traded paintings for sustenance, but I just kept doing the one thing that had been my passion and my reason to be on this plane of existence. Art has always been the best part of me. I have never regretted being true to what I am. Hard times or good times. What series are you working on now?
In 2016 the Pacific Rim Arts Society (PRAS) put on their ‘Cultural Heritage’ event honoring Emily Carr and her presence out here on the West Coast. Did you know the Nuu Chah Nulth First Nations people gave Emily the name ‘Klee Wyck’?
I’ve been a part of PRAS for 25 years now. I was President 6 times, and Vice President for more. It is one of the longest extant art societies in B.C., if not Canada. Since 1971 it has been instrumental in bringing the arts and culture to the whole of the Pacific Rim. It is a recognized leader in the Arts Community of B.C. and Canada and is held up as an example to other art societies. We are respected for our forward thinking and outreach to all the diverse peoples of this rich and beautiful area. PRAS continues to break ground with it’s innovative programing and efforts to enrich our citizens. Can you tell how proud I am to be a part of this?
It has helped me in more ways than I can clarify by giving me the contacts and opportunities I would never have known about. What are your future plans?
Paint, Paint, and then Paint some more! ~
Marla’s work can be viewed at Reflecting Spirit Gallery and Mark Penny Gallery, both located in Ucluelet, BC on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. www.facebook.com/marlathirskart
I was commissioned to paint a special portrait of Emily Carr, illustrating her time out here – she had painted in Ahousat across the bay in Ucluelet. You can see her sketches in her published works.
Largest Non-Juried Art Show on the West Coast ArtSplash! 2019
Black Rock Oceanfront Resort 596 Marine Drive, March 8 – 17, 2019
Each year the Pacific Rim Arts Society (PRAS) coordinates the largest non-juried Art show on the West Coast. PRAS’ membership of over 100 artists, specialize in mediums from painting, photography, sculpture, carving, material arts, pyrography to glass works, wood work, jewellery and everything in between. The calibre of the work increases each year inspiring artists and purchasers from around the world.
The prestigious Black Rock Oceanfront Resort over looking the beautiful Pacific Ocean provides the venue for this well attended event. Events include: PRAS hosted artist reception on opening night, members’ Artist in Action happening daily throughout the show, a Raffle which includes many original art works with proceeds going to the Arts Society youth programs. The public is invited to ‘Vote for your Favorite piece of art work’ with the winner earning the honor of their work being the poster image for the next years show and advertising.
The call to artists is open to artist members of the Pacific Rim Arts Society, please contact pacificrimarts@gmail.com for member information and rates.
The show is free for the public to attend however Donations are appreciated as PRAS is a non-profit association. Find out more about PRAS on their website pacificrimarts.ca, on their Face Book Page Pacific Rim Arts Society or email pacificrimarts@gmail.com for further information.
PRAS also put on an art show titled "Trees and Totems: Honoring Emily Carr”. After all the research I did for the commissioned portrait my head was swimming with inspiration. That’s how my newest body of work was born. (the painting ‘Honoring’ is from that show)
This ‘new’ style has become very popular and you can find all work on my Facebook page and Pinterest as well.
Pacific Rim Arts Society
Bear in the Berries, 34 x 40
Spring 2019
See you there!
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GICLÉE PRINTING CUSTOM FRAMING GRAPHIC DESIGN PHOTO RESTORATION ART • PHOTOGRAPHY
Stretching Giclées by Wendy Carmichael
At Island Exposures Gallery we stretch and hand-finish more than 75 canvases each month. In this article we'd like to share the techniques we use in order to achieve a high quality finished corner.
We strive to remove as much excess canvas as possible from corner folds. Keeping the corners free from bulk gives a professional finish, and more importantly makes for ease of placement into a decorative frame, if that's what the client prefers.
Our clients artwork is on display to be enjoyed and appreciated - but the back of the canvas is the "resume" that speaks to the care and attention of the person who stretched the artwork.
Step by Step April Special 16 x 20”
1. Once the first side of the canvas is stapled to the stretcher bars, make a diagonal cut to the corner.
stretched giclée print (includes black floater framer) only $119. limit 6 per order
3. Remove a small triangle of excess canvas from the corner.
4. Bring next side of the canvas over the stretcher bar. Make a 1/4 inch diagonal cut 1 inch from the corner. Trim excess to the diagonal cut, leaving 1/4 inch of canvas to fold under
250-228-5091
183 West Island Highway, Parksville BC ISLANDEXPOSURESGALLERY.COM
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5. Fold under that 1/4 inch of canvas and position the fold, holding it taut. www.islandartsmag.ca
2. From the inner corner, trim towards the outer edge of canvas.
6. Finish with 3-4 staples across the fold. 7. Repeat on remaining corners.
Mixed Media Saturday May 11th Lori Goldberg
Experience ways of expanding your creative possibilities by exploring mixed media painting. Build multi-layered artwork using textured grounds while using your personal self expression.
Lori Goldberg is a Vancouver artist whose paintings have been exhibited in Canada and in Europe.
She is an instructor at the Emily Carr College or Art and Design. Lori also teaches workshops at Whistler, Hollyhock and the Okanagan School of the Arts. Cost: $130. (+gst)
Getting to Know Acrylics Susan-Schaefer-fine-art.ca
We have a fun group of artists that meet once a week, paint, talk art and have fun, while getting comfortable working with acrylics.
Northern Light Abstracting Land and Sky
Class Time: 10:00 am - 12:30 Fridays: March 8 - 15 - 22 - 29 Cost: $150. (+gst) Location: McMillan Arts Centre, Parksville BC Register by calling Susan @ 250-586-5510.
October 19 – 20, 2019 Sharon Quirke, BA, MA
Does the mystery and majesty of the night sky capture your imagination?
Sharon will show you her favourite techniques in acrylic paint: transparency, rainbow layering and luminosity. Experiment with abstracting through a focus on movement and light.
Dianne E. Nelson
Original Silk Paintings & Commissions
Sharon Quirke is a professional artist living in West Vancouver. Cost: $275. (+gst)
Classes Available
Hosted by Island Arts Magazine
250-500-3548 Campbell River
Location: McMillan Arts Centre, Parksville Register Online at: www.islandartsmag.ca or by calling 250-586-5510 • Register Early. Our Classes tend to Fill Up Quickly!
email: swift.rivers.studio@gmail Spring 2019
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Intuitive Drawing with Penny Boden
n my last livestream, I shared the story a 7 year old boy with artistic wisdom beyond his years.
The boy was a guest at an adults' art group. The grown-ups were amazed by the boy's beautiful drawing of a sailing ship. They asked how he was able to create it. The boy said, "I look it onto the paper before I draw."
That boy's wisdom was tantamount to his art skills! He offered a child-friendly description of the creative process. I'd like to offer my own version of that boy's insight and say that I FEEL my art before I put it on paper.
As artists, we feel deeply. Those feelings are crucial to the creative process. Art begins in the heart of the artist long before pencil or brush touches paper or canvas. Many blessed and crucial hours are spent becoming inspired for the next piece.
The creative feeling process can be interrupted by the responsibilities of everyday life, but the creative spirit is amazing. Creative feelings truly worthy of pursuit are returned to again and again. Ideally and eventually the artist obtains that sacred time to put feeling onto paper.
The shift from chaos to hands-on creativity is not automatic. Pondering occurs and physical art begins to manifest. Have patience with yourself. Creativity is not automatic.
CELEBRATE!
Schedule downtime. Allow it to clear your mind so that you can enter the feeling stage in order to utilize your true creative potentials. If, at times, this is all you have time for, remember that it still counts as art. Appreciate this time and use it well. Your feelings can manifest into artwork later.
35 YEARS OF QUILTING TOGETHER!
We are a group of approximately 130+ quilters who love to get together every Thursday for good company, fellowship, lots of laughs and of course our beloved Quilting.
With regular soul time and dedication, the creative process becomes a part of you that you cannot deny. Allow beautiful and interesting artwork to manifest. ~
Penny Boden, Creator of Intuitive Drawing with Penny Boden visit "The Intuitive Drawing Hub" on Facebook. pennyboden.ca
My friend fancies himself as an artist and wants to sketch me. I told him, "I'm very busy at the moment." "How about next Sunday afternoon?" he suggested. I said, "Not too sure - but pencil me in."
Join us on Saturday, May 18 - Monday, May 20, 2019 at the Cumberland Cultural Centre, 2674 Dunsmuir Ave., Cumberland, BC
Hours: Saturday, May 18 & Sunday, May 19 - 10:00 - 5:00 Monday, May 20 - 10:00 - 3:30 Admission: $5.00 (under 12 free)
Door prizes, Quilt Raffle, Guild Boutique, Merchant Booths, Tea Room. Comox Valley Schoolhouse Quilters Guild www.schoolhousequilters.com
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Award-winning Jake’s Gift Returns to Nanaimo April 25-27 at VIU’s Malaspina Theatre
“The only two things that can satisfy the soul are a person and a story.” – G.K. Chesterton, A Miscellany of Men
Nanaimo - In June 2004, Julia Mackey traveled to Normandy, France, for the 60th anniversary of D-Day. It was one of the most moving and powerful experiences of her life. During that week long journey, Julia interviewed dozens of Canadian, British and American WW2 veterans who had returned for the ceremonies. The stories they shared with Julia and her own life-long interest in Remembrance Day inspired the development of the play.
Jake’s Gift is a surprisingly funny multi-award winning drama that tells the story of a Canadian World War II veteran’s reluctant return to Normandy, France, to find the grave of the brother who never came home. While revisiting the shores of Juno Beach, Jake encounters Isabelle, a precocious 10-year-old from the local village. Isabelle’s inquisitive nature and charm challenge the old soldier to confront some long-ignored ghosts – most notably, the war-time death of his eldest brother. At its heart, Jake’s Gift is about the legacy of remembrance and makes personal the story behind one soldier’s grave.
Since January 2007, Juno Productions has toured Jake’s Gift to theatres, festivals, community halls, schools and Legions in over
250 communities across Canada. Internationally, they’ve taken the show to Washington State, Tiverton & Birmingham, England, and to Normandy, France, for the 70th & 73rd Anniversary of D-Day, where Julia performed Jake’s Gift in French in venues right on Juno Beach! Juno Productions and Jake’s Gift have received rave reviews from critics and audience members alike whether in small rural towns or big city centres.
Now in their 12th season of touring Jake’s Gift, Julia and Director/Stage Manager Dirk Van Stralen continue to enjoy sharing this timeless story with communities across Canada and beyond.
Consider the Lilies XVII April 6 – 14, 2019
The members of Fibres and Beyond will consider the many aspects of “Heritage” for this year’s group challenge piece. There are many avenues to pursue; as a person, as an artist, ethnically, geographically, individually or as a group member. Each textile artist will interpret “Heritage” in their own preferred technique.
Group members are Linda Danielson, Gail Erickson, Janet Harper, Irm Houle, Phyllis Lysionek, Stephanie Saleem, Judy Seeley, Dana Sitar, Elizabeth Tanner, Joan Taylor, Jessie Taylor-Dodd, Isabel Tipton and Mary Wolfe. This year new member Lisa Urlacher joins the group. Her pieces feature silk fusion mounted on ice dyed fabric created by her mother.
Elizabeth Tanner
The venue is a star attraction, built in the mid 1800’s the church is situated in a Gary Oak meadow. A carpet of erythronium lilies and other local wild flowers, bloom at show time.
Phyllis Lysonek
Please visit St. Mary the Virgin church, 4354 Metchosin Rd. 10 am to 4:30 pm each day. Sunday 12 – 4:30, final Sunday 12 – 4:00. For information call: 250-642-2058 or 250-642-4323. Spring 2019
Joan Taylor 17
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Dalai Lama’s Instructions for Life
Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk. When you lose, don’t lose the lesson.
Follow the three R’s: respect for self, respect for others and responsibility for all your actions.
Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck. Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly. Don’t let a little dispute injure a great relationship.
When you realize you’ve made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it. Spend some time alone every day.
Open arms to change, but don’t let go of your values. Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
Live a good, honorable life. Then when you get older think back. You’ll be able to enjoy it a second time. A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation for your life.
One Year Subscription 4 BIG Issue
In disagreements with loved ones, deal only with the current situation. Don’t bring up the past.
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Easy to Order:
1) Online: https://store.youngatart.ca 2) Credit card by calling 250-586-5510 3) Fill in the subscription form and mail it to us along with your cheque.
Share your knowledge. It’s a way to achieve immortality.
Be gentle with the earth.
Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before.
Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.
Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it. Approach love and cooking with reckless abandon.
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Operated by the Society for Arts on the South Island (SASI), whose mission statement is to nurture British Columbia arts and culture … through the production and support of showcases of fine art and craft, the provision of arts education programs, public performances, and special community cultural events, www.coastcollective.ca
Coast Collective Gallery & Arts Centre “Can words describe the fragrance of the very breath of spring?” Neltje Blanchan
Spring, indeed, and Coast Collective is gearing up for an exciting new season.
First up, an open-call show, Casting Shadows. A brand-new theme, artists will be presenting works that shine a light upon shadows. This show runs from February 27th to March 10th with the Meetthe-Artists Reception on Saturday, March 2nd from 1 to 3. C’mon – no need to be afraid of your own shadow.
Bloom has been a highlight of Coast Collective’s open-call shows for 11 years and runs from March 13th to March 31st. Nothing says ‘SPRING’ like flowers – from the humble Dandelion to the scented Rose to the colourful Painted Tongue – these artists will delight you with their varied interpretations in both 2-D and 3-D. Come and smell the roses at the Meet-the-Artists Reception on Saturday, March 16th from 1 to 3.
In Conversation III: Poets Speak, Artists Respond, poets throughout the region were asked to submit poems. These poems were then sent out to members of Coast Collective, as well as to other artists who had expressed an interest in participating. The artists then chose poems that were meaningful to them and which they felt they could interpret in their chosen medium. The poems and artwork will be displayed together. This show runs from April 3rd to April 14th. Some of the selected poems will be read at the Meet-the-Artists reception on Saturday, April 6th from 1 to 3.
The region’s youngest artists are invited to submit artwork to celebrate Earth Day, an annual show that features artwork by children 12 and under. This year’s theme is West Coast Waters: Above and Below. Students, groups of
children, even entire classes, were invited to submit individual or collaborative efforts, be they clay sculptures, paintings, drawings etc. This show takes place from April 17th to April 28th with the Meetthe-Artists Reception on Saturday, April 20th from 1 to 3.
No doubt many of you painters have, at one time or another, accidentally dipped your brush into your drink. Well, the Canadian Whisky Painters do it intentionally – all their small watercolour landscapes contain a drop of the hard stuff. These whisky paintings are no bigger than 4 inches by 6 inches, painted with artist-quality paints on acid-free paper. The Canadian Whisky Painters 2019 Exhibition takes place from May 1st to May 12th with the Meet-the-Artists Reception taking place on Saturday, May 4th from 1 to 4.
Al Frescoes 2019 Spring Exhibition takes place from May 15th to May 26th. The ‘Al Frescoes Plein Air Painters of Victoria’ is the largest group operating on Vancouver Island. Every Friday morning finds these painters in another glorious spot, capturing the Island’s beauty out in the open air. Plan to attend the Meet-theArtists Reception being held on Saturday, May 18th from 1 to 3.
And finally, just squeaking into the May calendar is Collective Voices, the annual High School Student Art Show. This show features work from the art classes of Sooke School District’s High Schools – SD62. Be prepared to be blown away by the exciting works crafted by these talented young artists. This show runs from May 29th to June 9th with the Meet-theArtists on Friday, May 31st, from 7 to 9.
There are lots of classes available from photography to watercolours to sculpture, to drawing – check out the website for all the details. ~ Penny Pitcher Spring 2019
Judi Pedder
www.judipedder.com
Silk, Masa & Watercolour Paintings Classes Available
250-339-7081 Comox BC
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Jack James Thunderbird Totem Lifecycle Restoration Project
Master Carver: Ta’nis Simon Silas James (Simon Dick) Carver/Painter: Simon Daniel James and Quinn James
In 1964, Jack James, originally from Wakeman Sound and Gilford Village was commissioned to create a centennial pole for Parksville. The pole was located in the Community Park until 2001 when it was restored by Jack James and stepson, Simon Silas James. The restored pole was then moved to its new home at the Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce where it continued to deteriorate as occurs in natural settings. To recognize Canada’s 150th Sesquicentennial in 2017, the City of Parksville commissioned Simon Silas James to restore salvageable sections and create a lifecycle pole. Simon was inspired to approach the pole’s future in a unique way to honour both the lifecycle and the restoration process.
Totem poles in their natural settings are not intended to be preserved for longevity. The Kwakwakawak people allowed the natural progression of decline and decay to take its course, reflecting the life processes around it. Over the years, paint fades and vanishes, and birds and insects make their homes in the temporary habitat, furthering its evolution back to the forest bed.
The pole has been restored to show the natural progression from new to return to the earth. The left side of the pole has been intentionally aged to show what would be a natural evolution resulting from weather and decay.
Location: Parksville Civic and Technology Centre, 100 Jensen Ave. E. Parksville
The Qualicum Weavers and Spinners Guild will be holding a spring sale in conjunction with the Brant Festival, April 5 - 6 from 10 am - 4 pm.
Look for unique one of a kind handwoven clothing, household linens, hand spun yarns, knitted and felted items using natural fibres.
There will be demonstrations of weaving and spinning, a silent auction of members handiwork, The Commons (formerly Qualicum Elementary School), 744 Primrose Street, Qualicum Beach free admission and wheelchair friendly
Mon - Sat 10 - 6
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Sunday 10 - 4
Missed an Issue of Island Arts Magazine? No Problem. Find it online! islandartsmag.ca/magazine/back-issues
www.islandartsmag.ca
Salmon silhouette by Kim Reavley of West Coast Wood Creations, painted by Joanne Nemeth.
Stained Glass
• Glassworking Tools & Supplies • Books • Gifts • Stained Glass Repairs
Open: Tues - Sat 10-5:30
One Pan Roasted Lemon Pepper Salmon and Garlic Parmesan Asparagus
1 1/2 lbs salmon, skin on 2 1/2 tbsp olive oil, divided 1 tsp lemon zest 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice 4 cloves garlic , minced, divided 1 tsp dijon mustard 3/4 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp each salt and fresh cracked black pepper, plus more for asparagus 1/2 lemon, thinly sliced (optional) 1 1/2 - 2 lbs asparagus (medium spears), tough ends trimmed 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan
w w w.glas s exp .com
2925 Comox Rd. Courtenay, BC
250-339-7739
“If you hear a voice within you say, ‘You cannot paint,’ then by all means paint, and that voice will be silenced” – Vincent Van Gogh
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed 17 by 12-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Place salmon in center of pan. In a mixing bowl whisk together 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil, the lemon zest, lemon juice, 2 cloves garlic, dijon, onion powder. Brush evenly over top of salmon. Sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt and pepper (add more pepper to taste if desired). Top with lemon slices. Toss asparagus with remaining 1 tbsp olive oil, remaining 2 cloves garlic and season with salt, then place around salmon.
Bake in preheated oven 10 minutes. Remove from oven, toss asparagus then sprinkle asparagus with parmesan. Return to oven and bake until salmon has cooked through, about 5 - 10 minutes longer. Cut salmon into portions. Serve warm. Recipe source: Cooking Classy
Spring 2019
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M A R K E T- P L A C E :
AN AFFORDABLE AND EFFICIENT WAY TO ADVERTISE
MARGERY BLOM ~ Oil Painter
Undeniably Art
Celebrating Vancouver Island
Join us on May 24 - 26 Central Island Studio Tour Featuring Emerging Artists
Cumberland Heritage House 2728 Penrith Ave. Cumberland 250–336-2808
www.margeryblom.com
ART SUPPLIES
Iron Oxide Art Supplies #5 Victoria Road, Nanaimo BC 250-591-4766. Great selection of gifts for those on your shopping list. www.ironoxideartsupplies.com
Island Blue’s Art Store art supplies, easels, frames, etc. Easy online shopping and quick delivery. www.islandblue.com
THE GALLERY @ QUALICUM ART SUPPLY - A Full line of Fine Art Supplies - Custom Picture Framing - Local Fine Art Gallery Stationery & Desktop Publishing 206 First Ave. W. Qualicum Beach 250-752-3471 Follow us on Facebook
CALL TO ARTISTS
Parksville Beach Festival July 12- August 18, 2019 Art in the Park July 27 & 28, 2019 or more information visit parksvillebeachfest.ca
CALL FOR ARTISTS Arts on the Avenue, Ladysmith Sunday, August 25, 2019. Deadline for entry, noon April 6. Jury will take place April 6, at the Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery 610 Oyster Bay Drive Ladysmith. 250-245-1252. Entry forms www.artsontheavenue.ca 22
17th Annual Art in Bloom May 18 - 19 20, Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens in Courtenay BC. For more information and to register, call (250) 338-6901 woodlandgardens.ca
'Works of HeART Project' is inviting all artists/artisans to help create a better world with your own, unique talents. You could be featured on our website, social media and in a film we are creating to inspire people worldwide. Find out more & contact us @ www.worksofHeARTproject.com.
EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS
Art from the Attic Sale Sell ART you no longer love. March 15 - 28 at the Od School House, Qualicum Beach theoldschoolhouse.org
Hi Fire Yo
Functional & Sculptural Clay
Spring Craft Sale Italian Hall Port Alberni April 13, 10am - 6pm
New: Yo’s Garden & Yard Pots (250) 724-9991
www.islandartsmag.ca
Consider the Lilies XVII April 6 – 14, 2019 A show and sale of textile art by Fibres and Beyond held in the heritage St. Mary the Virgin church to coincide with the fawn lilies blooming in the church yard., 4354 Metchosin Rd. 10–4:30 each day. Sunday 12–4:30. Info: 250-642-2058, 250-642-4323.
SUSAN SCHAEFER
EXPLORING FLORALS
May 4 - May 17
Whyte’s Framing & Gallery 1225 Lazo Road, Comox BC 37th Annual Filberg Festival, Comox BC. Celebrate the best of arts, crafts and music from across Canada! August 2-5, 2019 filbergfestival.com
Nanoose Bay Studio Showcase, April 27 & 28. See our studio artists under one roof at Nanoose Place. www.nanoosebaystudiotour.com
This Spring — Daina Ashbee returns to her hometown of Nanaimo with her riveting installation performance, Serpentine. Presented by Crimson Coast Dance and performed by Areli Moran, the work vibrates the essence of Ashbee’s dark, feminine pieces and is intended as an intense summary of three previous works that earned her a place in Dance Magazine's 'Top 25 to Watch' in 2018. Serpentine depicts liberating strength within the intimate performance space of the Nanaimo Art Council Gallery; evoking endurance in both performer and spectator. It explores the violence of repressing the female body, and its innate capacity to abide. 7:30pm, April 16 & 17, 2019, NAC Gallery. Tickets: crimsoncoastdance.org
GALLERIES & GIFTS
McMillan Arts Centre Artisan Gift Shop. Local artwork, photography, pottery, jewellery, cards, gifts and more. Open: Tues. - Sat. 10 - 4 pm. 133 McMillan St. Parksville. Sandbar Cafe and Art Gallery Open 7 days a week. Weekend entertainment. 6087 W. Island Hwy. Qualicum Bay. 778-424-9892 proud supporter of the Arts
MERCHANDISE
Matthews Store Fixtures & Shelving. Gridwalls, Displays & Packaging. Perfect for your events. 810 Shamrock St. Victoria. www.matthewsdisplay.com
We Welcome Your Submissions
• Articles • Photographs • Letters to the editor • Comments • Testimonials • Press Releases
Refer to our website for guidelines.
www.islandartsmag.ca/ magazine/submissions
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Proudly Supporting the Arts
SERVICES
Websites that work. Call Jeff 250-240-0111 www.yaadev.com
WORKSHOPS & CLASSES
Beginner’s Acrylic Painting classes with Susan Schaefer held in Parksville. Friday mornings March 8 - 15 - 22 - 29. Come out and have some fun! 250-586-5510
Scrivener Art Workshops: Mixed Media, Encaustic, Collage, Acrylic, Cold Wax and Oil Paint. Studio and online, register at www.pattscrivenerworkshops.com or call 250-248-2775
Workshops in Exclusive Cardmaking and Scrapbooking with Els Schutte. Painting Lessons by Michael Schutte, all Ages, Oil, and Acrylic. Music Lessons in all Styles and All Ages. Academy of Music and Art, Parksville. Tel 250 927 4005 www.academyoffineartparksville.com
ART CLASSES with JILL PARIS RODY SEPT. thru JUNE
in Campbell River & the Comox Valley
Weekly Mornings, or Evenings Summer Plein Air Classes
25 years teaching experience Adults, All Levels Watercolour, Acrylic,Pastel Travel Teaching Available
www.jillparisrody.com Email: jrodycda@telus.net Spring 2019
We shall never know all the good that a simple smile can do. Island Arts Magazine & Young at Art Studios proudly sponsor:
Sooke Fine Arts Show McMillan Arts Centre Bell Barn Society The Robert Bateman Centre Old School House Arts Centre
LOOK • • for the
Summer issue Coming out in June Deadline April 21st 23
