Donald
Teuma-Castelletti
PORTAGE DU FORT
Sept. 15, 2017
A uniquely Canadian piece of art was unveiled last Friday evening at the Stone School Gallery and it’s the collaborative effort of local artists that makes it all the more special.
Combining the talents of nine artists, the Canada 150 logo was recreated – albeit with a twist.
Celebrating many different aspects and understandings of Canada, focusing on the natural wonders around the artists everyday, the piece sits boldly in the gallery allowing the separate sections to stand out against a black backdrop.
“I quarterbacked this one,” said Glen Hartle. “Back in May I sent a note around asking if they want to be a part of it.”
Hartle was the mastermind behind the effort, working diligently to create a piece like no other.
“The instructions were very simple,” he said, laughing. “Make art.”
He was also proud to share that the piece was comprised entirely of recycled materials.
“Until we assembled it, no one knew who was involved or who had each piece,” said Hartle.
Hartle’s contributions lay in two photographs, one a depiction of a hummingbird against a sunset and the other a sunrise. Labelling the pieces as hope and optimism, respectively, he was very proud of his work, but even more so of the work of everyone involved.
“We’re really hopeful that [the piece] lives on beyond this art exhibit,” he said.
The piece was unveiled at an art show at the gallery, amongst a series of other themes. Also included was collaborative efforts on panoramic views by Jill Alexander, Diane Wakely and Bonnie Tubman-Zimmerling, rural scenes depicted in trippy, psychedelic colours, as well as portraits and photography.
The panorama works were very popular, as each had the interpretation of the three artists. The photo of a scene would be provided by Tubman-Zimmerling, while Wakely would reproduce the image with watercolour and Alexander would do the same in acrylic.
“The audience loves our interpretations and how we develop the photos in our own styles,” said Alexander.
Hosted as a vernissage, an assortment of works in a variety of mediums were on display ranging from paintings to stained glass. Over 30 people were present for the beginning of the evening, with more coming and going as the event ran from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.