Galleries West Summer 2012 by Galleries West

SUMMER 2012

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DOUBLE TAKES

Ceramic artist Greg Payce in profile

Display until August 31, 2012

THE NOT-SO-SUBTLE

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C O N T E N T S Summer 2012 Vol. 11 No. 2

FEATURES

Into the Void

With new work this summer in Calgary and Massachusetts, John Will is making much ado about nothing

Imaginary Landscapes

By Monique Westra

Feature Previews

Shows scheduled for the summer season JJ Kegan McFadden ..................... 16 Doug Cranmer ............................ 18 Transart Collective ....................... 20

By Mary-Beth Laviolette

Rick Leong at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria; plus, Portia Priegert on contemporary Chinese art and the Canadian effect

First Impressions

News and events from across the region

Exhibition Reviews

Exclusive reviews of recent shows throughout Western Canada Beyond Vague Terrain .................. 24 Kent Tate..................................... 24 Babak Golkar .............................. 26 Emanuel Licha ............................. 26 Edward Poitras ............................ 28 Drawn Passages .......................... 28 Scott McFarland .......................... 30 Beat Nation................................. 30

Feature Review

Greg Payce: Illusions, at the Gardiner Museum, Toronto

52 Collectors

Nine artists to consider right now Yvette Moore .............................. 52 James Leonard ............................ 52 Douglas Fisher ............................ 52 Bigoudi ....................................... 53 Charles Carson ............................ 53 David Alexander .......................... 53 Judith Panson.............................. 54 Steven Goring ............................. 54 Linda Wilder ............................... 54

Site Specifics

With a financial pinch on after the Olympics, public art projects in Vancouver are at a crucial crossroads

By Beverly Cramp

What keeps cowboy art collectible?

More than 100 years on, classic Westernthemed painting and sculpture is still riding tall By Heather Setka

Back Room

Leonard Brooks, Yellow Moon, collage on canvas, c.2002. By Jill Sawyer

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in the galleries this season Carol Haigh ................................. 56 Lyndl Hall .................................... 58 Sophie Jodoin ............................. 60 Steven Armstrong ....................... 61 Doug Williamson ........................ 62 Dwayne Harty ............................. 62 Sean William Randall ................... 64 Joel and Robert Sinclair ............... 66 Paper Doll ................................... 70 Sleep of Reason........................... 71

Previews and Profiles

Sources Where to find fine

Directory

art galleries across the west

Services and resources for art makers and art buyers

48 www.gallerieswest.ca

Galleries West Summer 2012 5

Editor

Reviews Editor Art Director Contributors

Publisher & Director of Advertising

Subscriptions

Mailing address and production deliveries

Prepress Printed in Canada

Jill Sawyer editor@gallerieswest.ca 1-866-415-3282 P.O. Box 5287, Banff, Alberta, T1L 1G4 Richard White reviews@gallerieswest.ca Wendy Pease Katie Brennan, Beverly Cramp, John G. Hampton, Michael Harris, Bob Keelaghan, Mary-Beth Laviolette, Douglas MacLean, Laureen Marchand, Janet Nicol, Portia Priegert, Andrew Querner, Lissa Robinson, Heather Setka, Kenton Smith, Monique Westra Tom Tait publisher@gallerieswest.ca 403-234-7097 Toll Free 866-697-2002 Published in January, May and September. $19.50 per year including GST/HST. For USA $24.50. For International $31.50. Subscribe online at www.gallerieswest.ca or send cheque or money order to: #301, 690 Princeton Way SW Calgary, Alberta T2P 5J9 #301, 690 Princeton Way SW, Calgary, Alberta, T2P 5J9 403-234-7097 Fax: 403-243-4649 Toll free: 866-697-2002 Island Digital Services Ltd. Transcontinental LGM-Coronet

Visit our website at: www.gallerieswest.ca Or send your questions and comments to askus@gallerieswest.ca We acknowledge the support of the Alberta Foundation for the Arts for our publishing program.

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ÂŠAll rights reserved ISSN No. 1703-2806 Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. Galleries West 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.

On the Cover: Greg Payce, The Customs and the Spirit of the Nations: Occident, lenticular image of ceramics, 2011, 46" X 39". Collection of the artist. 6 Galleries West Summer 2012

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FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Up front in the visual arts Eight artists awarded 2012 GGs

Margaret Dragu, Charles Lewton-Brain among winners

ancouver-based performance artist Margaret Dragu and Calgary-based artist and goldsmith Charles Lewton-Brain are among the eight winners of the 2012 Governor General’s Awards in Visual and Media Art, awarded annually by the Canada Council for the Arts. A long-time, popular instructor at the Alberta College of Art and Design, Lewton-Brain was given the Saidye Bronfman Award for Fine Craft. Lewton-Brain is an important figure in the world of art jewellery — his work pushes the limits of natural metals, revealing chemical tensions and after-effects. He created a technique called “foldforming” to manipulate simple hand-tools to shape sheet metal. He and his wife Dee Fontans ran a centre for jewellery studies in Calgary for more than 10 years, and he’s the founder of Ganoksin.com, now the world’s largest free online resource for jewelers. His work has been exhibited across Canada and internationally. Margaret Dragu was initially a dancer, and over her 40-year career in the arts she’s incorporated performance, video, film, installation, and writing into her practice. She’s created multiple characters — Verb Woman, Lady Justice, Nuestra Senora del Pan — to engage audiences at galleries and museums across Canada

and internationally, and in street performances throughout Vancouver. Her work is focused on feminism, the environment, and social issues, and she’s worked with both artists and non-artists in her community. The Governor General’s Award, given annually by Governor General David Johnston to senior practitioners in visual art, new media, curating, and fine craft, is a $25,000 grant and a specialissue medallion sponsored by the Royal Canadian Mint.

TOP PHOTO: MARTIN LIPMAN.

Performance artist Margaret Dragu is a winner of the 2012 Governor General’s Awards in Visual and Media Arts. Charles Lewton-Brain, Chased face, sterling silver, mercury gilding 24k gold, 1977. 10 Galleries West Summer 2012

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FIRST IMPRESSIONS Emily Carr prof wins BC arts prize This year's Audain Prize for lifetime achievement in the visual arts has been awarded to Emily Carr University associate professor Marian Penner Bancroft, an artist and mentor to multitudes of BC art students. Given annually in Vancouver by the Audain Foundation for the Visual Arts, the prize is worth $30,000. With a practice in photography that explores the intersections of photographic images with history, music, and mapping in relation to landscape, Bancroft's work, which includes video, text, sound, and sculpture, has been exhibited nationally and internationally, including shows at the Vancouver Art Gallery and the Centre Culturel Canadien in Paris. Past winners of the Audain Prize have included Haida artist Robert Davidson, and photographer Rodney Graham. Co-presented with the Audain Prize, the Jack and Doris Shadbolt Foundation gives the 2012 VIVA Awards (for BC artists) to Ron Tran and Beau Dick. Originally from Vietnam, Vancouver-based artist Tran's work centres on coincidence in daily life, and he's had shows nationally and internationally, including at the 2007 East International Biennial in Norwich, England, and the Berlin Biennale 6. Dick, a Kwakwaka'wakw carver has work in museums including the Canadian Museum of Civilization, the Heard Museum in Phoenix, and the Vancouver Art Gallery. Canada Post honours Saskatchewan artist Saskatchewan-based sculptor Joe Fafard is the latest Canadian artist to have a line of Canada Post stamps designed with his art featured prominently. The honour is fitting www.gallerieswest.ca

— Fafard's father Joe was the postmaster in Ste-Marthe, the tiny prairie town where Fafard grew up, from 1951 to 1969. Subject of a retrospective exhibition organized by the National Gallery of Canada and Regina's Mackenzie Art Gallery (which toured six venues across Canada from 2007 to 2009), Fafard has had three of his popular works translated into stamp form. They include the whimsical bovinethemed sculpture Smoothly She Shifted — a legs-akimbo jersey cow (currently in the collection of the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts), his sculpted portrait of Vincent Van Gogh, called Dear Vincent, and one of his lasercut-steel sculptures called Running Horses. Canada Post stamp design manager Alain Leduc, with co-designer Marie-Helene L'Heureux, met Fafard to shoot portraits of all the work at once. "It's unusual and quite thrilling for us to have the opportunity to depict sculpture," Leduc says. "And meeting the artist added much to the entire creative experience." Bargain hunter hits the jackpot in Vancouver Vancouver auction house Maynard’s authenticated two paintings by Canadian masters after a local garage sale bargain hunter brought them in for appraisal. The buyer, who’s remaining anonymous until after the works go up for auction this May, paid less than $100 for paintings by Group of Seven member Frederick Varley, and by landscape painter Tom Thomson. The paintings were brought in to Maynard’s in a shopping bag in January, and Kate Bellringer, director of Canadian and contemporary art at the auction house, has spent the time since authenticating both. She says the Thomson find is

David Montpetit, Untitled, 26”h x 15”w x 10”d

THE BARN GALLERY Okanagan Original Art In a True Country Setting (250) 548-3823 4450 Towgood Road Oyama, BC V4V 2B6 www.barngallery.ca Open: Fri. Sat. Sun. 10 am - 5 pm May Long weekend till Thanksgiving Galleries West Summer 2012 11

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

Kelowna Art Gallery show sets record Community collects 4,154 original works

nspired by their spring show David Alexander: The Shape of Place, about the artist’s experience of landscape, staff and patrons of the Kelowna Art Gallery pulled together an impromptu exhibition of donated small works, which resulted in a world record for the largest collection of four-inch by six-inch artworks displayed in one place. The show, made up of 4,154 original works of art on postcard-sized paper, is called Local Views to Make World News. The gallery started collecting the works in early January — small-scale, Okanagan-themed, original, landscape-based works by community members. The collection started slow, but quickly gained momentum, and pieces poured in from around the community, as well as from Texas, western BC, and even India. The original goal, far surpassed, was 2,500 works. “We were hoping for a good response and we received an overwhelming response,” says executive director Nataley Nagy. “We truly hope this project inspires museums, galleries, and other cultural organizations to challenge our record and undertake projects like this of their own accord.” KAG has verified the record with recordsetter.com, and has applied for verification from Guiness. This community exhibition at the Kelowna Art Gallery set a record with more than 4,000 individual works of art in one gallery space.

extremely rare, and was likely painted from the seat of his canoe in Algonquin Park in 1915. She’s valued the Thomson conservatively at $100,000 to $250,000. “Normally, they would be closer to $600,000,” Bellringer told the CBC shortly after the find. “But because it was found at a yard sale and it doesn’t have the same provenance as many paintings do, we decided to keep the estimates conservative.” The Varley painting, a watercolour view of Sheffield, England painted before the artist emigrated to Canada, was valued at approximately $10,000. Medicine Hat artist Les Manning gets pinned After a decades-long career as an artist, teacher, mentor, and community builder, ceramist Les Manning has 12 Galleries West Summer 2012

been named to the Order of Canada. For him, the benefit now of all those years helping to create opportunities for artists across western Canada and beyond is the time and freedom to concentrate on his own work, which he'll continue in his second-floor studio in the Shaw Centre at Medalta in Medicine Hat. “It’s incredible to even be considered for the Order of Canada,” Manning said on hearing of the appointment. “All of the efforts which got me there made for less time in the studio. Now that I’m home in Alberta, I've been able to find the time to pursue the ceramic work I really started to do 40 years ago.” Originally from Provost, Alberta, Manning graduated from the Alberta College of Art in 1966 and spent 25 years overseeing the ceram-

ics residency programs at The Banff Centre. He helped to create the Canadian Craft Council, and served as its first

Ceramic artist Les Manning, named to the Order of Canada this year, in his studio at Medalta in Medicine Hat.

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FIRST IMPRESSIONS president until 1975. After Banff, he moved to Ontario for six years before returning to Alberta in 2001 to help build the ceramics residency at Medalta Potteries National Historic Site, the centerpiece of Medicine Hat’s Historic Clay District. All along, he’s continued his studio practice, much of it centred on clay pieces that reflect the multi-coloured strata of Alberta’s landscape. Today, his work is in permanent collections in countries around the world, including Japan, Egypt, Turkey, Korea, and China. Moves and upgrades at Urban Shaman, Royal BC Museum, and others… Urban Shaman contemporary Aboriginal art gallery in Winnipeg has appointed Daina Warren as director. She’s taken over after the recent departure of Amber-Dawn Bear Robe, who has gone back to pursue further education. A former Aboriginal Curatorial Resident at the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa, where she curated the 2011 group show Don’t Stop Me Now, Warren is from the Montana Cree Nation in Hobbema, Alberta. She worked as codirector for much of the past year with Bear Robe. She’s the past associate curator and administrator at grunt gallery in Vancouver, and is currently a Master’s candidate in Curatorial and Critical Studies at the University of British Columbia. Urban Shaman is one of Canada’s foremost gallery spaces for the development and exhibition of contemporary Aboriginal art, creating opportunities for emerging, mid-career, and established artists. On the verge of a major revitalization plan for its downtown Victoria site, the Royal BC Museum has appointed UK cultural scholar Jack Lohman www.gallerieswest.ca

its new CEO, taking over for Pauline Rafferty, who has retired. Director of the Museum of London since 2002, Lohman was previously the CEO of the Iziko Museums of Cape Town, consisting of 15 national museums in South Africa, and oversaw the $30-million redevelopment project at Museum of London that created five new interactive galleries. He’s also the editor of the UNESCO publication series Museums and Diversity. In addition to the redevelopment plan for RBCM, Lohman comes into the museum just as they’re about to welcome two large-scale touring exhibitions — Dinosaurs: Ancient Fossils, New Discoveries, and Queen Elizabeth II by Cecil Beaton. The Nanaimo Art Gallery on Vancouver Island has also recently appointed a new executive director. Julie Bevan takes over for Ed Poli, who has just retired after four years of managing the gallery. With a Master’s degree in art history from UBC, she has been on the Gallery’s board of directors since moving to the Island in 2010, and has also been a member of Nanaimo’s cultural advisory committee. She was most recently public programs and publicity coordinator at the Morris and Helen Belkin Art Gallery at the University of British Columbia. IMCA and MOCA sign MOU in Calgary acronymbased summit Now that the new Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is established on the site of the Triangle Gallery in Calgary, its managers have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Institute of Modern and Contemporary Art (IMCA) setting forth on a new chapter in Calgary’s cultural development. Both institutions are now focused on finding a new

ALBERTA SOCIETY OF ARTISTS GALLERY AT WA LT E R D A L E P L AY H O U S E

A Balance of Order and Chaos May 14 to 19, 2012 An exhibition by Erik Cheung in conjunction the annual one-act play festival From Cradle to Stage. Open during show times and Saturdays 10 am to 3 pm

Erik Cheung

Nine

July 4 to 14, 2012 Exploring the themes in Fredrico Fillini’s films in conjunction with the Broadway musical, Nine. Open during show times and Saturdays 10 am to 3 pm

Lobby of Walterdale Playhouse, 10322 - 83 Avenue, Edmonton, 780-439-2845 Open: During performances Wednesday through Sunday, Saturdays from 10 am - 3 pm

ALBERTA SOCIETY OF ARTISTS GALLERY AT LO U G H E E D H O U S E

Re-frame: The Kids at Hull Celebrating 50 years of helping kids and families. Art from the youth at Hull.

April 24th to May 13, 2012 “Polar Bear without a Name”

Fibre Works Celebrating Fibre! May 16 to June 24, 2012 Opening: May 27, 1:30 to 3:30 pm Dana Roman “Contradictions”(Detail)

Passages

David Harrison “Reconstructed Graffiti: Spacial Study”

Art exploring passages: travel, growth, life, historical events, and personal transformational experiences. June 27 to August 26, 2012 Opening: July 15, 1:30 to 3:30 pm

Ballroom of Lougheed House, 707 - 13 Ave SW, Free admission to the Gallery and Gift Shop Open: Wednesday to Friday, 11am - 4pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am - 4 pm, 403-244-6333

Call for Submissions

Celebrating Alberta The Alberta Society of Artists is currently accepting submissions for it’s upcoming juried exhibition, Celebrating Alberta! Open to all Alberta artists, working in any medium, up to 48” in any direction. Deadline for submission: August 16, 2012. Applications can be downloaded at: www.artists-society.ab.ca The ASA and Lougheed House gratefully acknowledge their funding partners and the support of the Government of Alberta’s ‘Community Spirit Donation Program‘

Galleries West Summer 2012 13

FIRST IMPRESSIONS

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Calgary Wildfowl Carving (International Wildfowl Carving Association Rules)

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Pat Godin - World Champion

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Nearika (yarn-painted) torso Huichol Indian folk art

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Friends of Medalta acquires brickworks After flooding from the South Saskatchewan River in the summer of 2010, I-XL Industries announced that they would be permanently closing their Medicine Hat Brick and Tile Plant site, opening the door for the Friends of Medalta Society to acquire the site as part of the city’s National Historic Clay District. I-XL president Malcolm Sissons signed an agreement that would turn over not only the brickworks site and land, but also a $4 million cash donation to the Friends to evolve the plant into a historic and interpretive site that would help the Friends tell the industrial and cultural story of the region. The vision for the site includes interpretive tours, and the restoration of the brickworks as it operated in the late 19th century, as well as a residence facility for the Medalta artists in residence program. “A large part of Medicine Hat’s

This Nuu-Chah-Nulth ceremonial club originally from the estate of Captain Cook was recently donated to the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia.

story is about the early industrialization of Alberta,” says Historic Clay District executive director Barry Finkelman. “That history begins with our community’s clay industries and, quite specifically,the site on which Medicine Hat Brick and Tile was built. It would have been unfortunate to lose such a unique piece of our past.” Captian Cook’s treasure repatriated to British Columbia Carrying out his commitment to assist in repatriating original Aboriginal artworks from BC back to the province, arts philanthropist Michael Audain has bought and donated the last privately held object from the www.gallerieswest.ca

PHOTO: BILL MCLENNAN

Arts on Atlantic Gallery

site for a dedicated public gallery, either an existing building or a new development, for contemporary art, which will present the best in regional, national, and international art, design, and new media, and deliver educational programs. “We are stronger and more effective when we all work cooperatively together,” says MOCA artistic director Jeffrey Spalding. “Calgarians have longed to see a stand-alone full service art museum established, and this announcement advances that cause. We’ll be seeking input from the community to inform and guide our aspirations as we endeavor to re-locate to a more appropriate permanent facility. There are a number of exciting options to be considered — renovating an existing structure or designing a new purpose-built museum.”

FIRST IMPRESSIONS collection of Captain Cook to the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia. Presented to Cook during his exploration of the west coast of the continent in 1776 and 1777, the object is a Nuu-chah-nulth war club, originally misattributed in the collection as originating in the Sandwich Islands (Hawaii). Other of Cook’s collection of west coast artifacts are in public museums in Europe, but Audain was able to buy this object, valued at $1.2 million at auction and present it to MOA. Carved from yew wood, it’s in the shape of a hand holding a sphere. “Thanks to the Audain Foundation and the Mowachaht-Muchalaht and Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations,this important artifact will be a catalyst for new research and thinking on both the object itself and its global journey,” says MOA director Anthony Shelton, of the gift. Museums and arts orgs dodge federal budget cuts Though publicly funded film and television took a hit in the recent federal budget, both the Canada Council for the Arts and most of Ottawa’s major national galleries and museums emerged unscathed. National arts advocates were gratified to see the Canada Council maintain its current levels of funding, and get confirmation of public support for the Canadian Travelling Exhibitions Indemnification Program, which will insure galleries travelling exhibitions. Many arts advocates attribute the save to Heritage Minister James Moore, a long-standing an outspoken supporter of public funding for the arts in Canada. Calgary capitalizes on cultural status Named Cultural Capital of Canada for 2012, the city of www.gallerieswest.ca

Calgary is planning a year-long celebration of the arts. After the designation was made by Heritage Minister James Moore, city organizers got started planning — in part to dispel the image of the city as a cultural backwater 100 years behind the times. Mixing a loud dose of contemporary rock, country music, original theatre, opera, dance, and exhibitions, the city has plans to blow the lid off that reputation. The city-wide plan kicks off with an opening celebration in May. Among the Cultural Capital plans in place so far — an artist in residence program that will connect artists with the worlds of agriculture, sport, and business, a cultural exchange program with other cities, and a revamped cultural blueprint for the city moving into the future. Winnipeg gallery celebrates 100 years About to embark on a year’s worth of centennial celebrations, the Winnipeg Art Gallery is the oldest civic gallery in Canada. For the past two years, volunteers have been planning to make a big splash, enhancing the gallery’s permanent collection (which includes European and Canadian art, works on paper, photography, decorative arts, contemporary and studio pieces, and the largest public collection of contemporary Inuit art in the world) with temporary shows that will celebrate Winnipeg’s thriving visual arts scene. Beginning in September, the gallery will showcase a contemporary exhibition called Winnipeg Now, followed by Creation & Transformation: Defining Moments in Inuit Art, and a show that will open next year called Only in Canada: International Masterworks, which brings together 100 outstanding pieces from galleries across Canada.

the

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Sun Spirit Gallery

Klatle Bhi

2444 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC. V7V 1L1 778.279.5052 www.sunspirit.ca

Yeats

Yeats Studio & Gallery

2402 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC. V7V 1L1 778.279.8777 www.craigyeats.com

Eastcott

Bellevue Gallery

2475 Bellevue Avenue, West Vancouver, BC. V7V 1E1 604.922.3204 www.bellevuegallery.ca

Buckland Southerst Gallery

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2460 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC. V7V 1L1 604.922.1915 www.bucklandsoutherst.com

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PREVIEWS AND PROFILES

BRITISH COLUMBIA: Kesu’: The Art and Life of Doug Cranmer, March 7 to September 3, Museum of Anthropology, Vancouver Northwest coast carver and artist Doug Cranmer shunned the limelight in his lifetime (he died in 2006), but now a retrospective exhibition at Vancouver’s Museum of Anthropology shines a bright light on a collection of his works known as indigenous modern. “It was all about the process,” says curator Dr. Jennifer Kramer. “He was always trying new things. In his work, traditional and contemporary merged without his losing a sense of self.” Kesu’, the title of the show, means “wealth being carved.” Doug Cranmer was given the name by his Kwakwaka’wakw parents when he was a child growing up in Alert Bay. “His family saw him being carved to be a noble person,” Kramer says. Kesu’ captures the spirit of an artist who would have rather remained elusive. “He hated to be labelled,” Kramer says. He didn’t want to be called a ‘master carver’ if it meant there was nothing new to try. “He wasn’t going to be able to ‘play’ if he was a ‘master’,” she adds. While Cranmer took on the traditional leadership duties expected of him, he also worked as a fisherman and logger, and in the late 1950s, he met artist Mungo Martin, who showed him how to carve totem poles. Soon after, he was hired by Haida artist Bill Reid and worked with other carvers on the Haida houses and totem poles for the Museum of Anthropology. His life as a full-time artist had begun. Cranmer stayed on in Vancouver, and became very much part of the art scene in the 1960s and 1970s, creating works in several media and establishing The Talking Stick, the first Native-owned gallery in Canada in 1962, which he ran for six years. Cranmer’s art sold across Canada and internationally but he wasn’t looking for fame and fortune. “Doug Cranmer was part of the Northwest coast renaissance at the same time as Bill Reid, but he wasn’t interested in selling TOP LEFT: Doug Cranmer, Bracelet, silver, 1994. himself,” Kramer says. “He wasn’t into pleasing others. He followed his own internal focus.” Collection of Vivien Cranmer. There are 105 pieces of Cranmer’s work in the MOA exhibition, including carvings, paintings, jewellery, TOP RIGHT: Doug Cranmer, 1980. Courtesy of prints on burlap and abstract paintings on mahogany. In fact, Cranmer pioneered abstract and nonU’mista Cultural Society and the Audrey and Harry figurative paintings using Northwest Coast ovoids and U-shapes. He taught and inspired a generation of Hawthorn Library and Archives. First Nations artists, and 20 of these artists’ pieces are also part of the retrospective. In 1996 Cranmer left ABOVE: Doug Cranmer, Canoe, print, Vancouver to return ‘home’ to Alert Bay. He was still teaching in the island town’s carving shed in the days paper and ink, 1996, 11” X 30”. before he died. The show centres on a canoe and paddles surrounded by undersea creatures, carved by Cranmer in 1970. “His work is spare, refined, elegant and simple,” Kramer says of the work. “There’s also a painting of a canoe which is abstract,” she adds. “He was using geometric shapes to show a canoe from every perspective,” she says of an abstract painting of a canoe. “I put this next to the carved canoe, so people can look at Doug’s work from many perspectives too. He can’t be summed up.” Audio elements in the show include interviews with the artist, the sound of chainsaws — a tool he relished, jazz music, which he loved to listen to and the sound of laughter, representing Cranmer’s sharp wit. It also includes details of his life and personality in family photographs — Cranmer’s widow and sister worked closely with the curator. “I didn’t know Doug Cranmer personally,” Kramer says. “But I spoke to over 50 people who knew Doug.” — Janet Nicol 16 Galleries West Summer 2012

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TOP LEFT: KEN MAYER; LOWER LEFT: VICKIE JENSEN; TOP RIGHT: KYLA BAILEY

DOUG CRANMER

BARRY WEISS & JEAN-LOUIS Ă&#x2030;MOND

Living Rooms: summer group show

May 17 - June 16

rotating through the gallery June 22 - August 25

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Galleries West Summer 2012 17

PREVIEWS AND PROFILES

J.J. KEGAN MCFADDEN MANITOBA: With Alec in Mind, April 19 to June 9, Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba, Brandon “I’m beginning to think so much of what I do concerns memory,” says curator J. J. Kegan McFadden, director of Platform Centre for Photographic + Digital Arts in Winnipeg. His 2010 solo show Kelly & Terry & Kegan attempted to trace his father’s family line through ephemera, including his father’s and grandfather’s and personal wardrobes. So it’s worth asking McFadden about how much memory comprises his most recent exhibition, With Alec in Mind, at the Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba in Brandon. The show incorporates clothing, family photographs, and other ordinary artifacts, this time paired with a selection of art works by more than 50 artists from the Manitoba Art Bank Collection. It’s all focused on a violent episode from McFadden’s family history — the murder of his great uncle Alexander (Alec) Tabolotney by Alec’s grandson, Aaron Molodowic. It happened in 1993 when McFadden was only 15 years old, but it’s LEFT TOP: William Eakin, My Father’s an incident he remembers perfectly vividly, despite having been “removed from it all” as he says. Garden #33, black and white silverprint, 1982. “I remember listening to music and being a normal teenager,” he says, adding that a lot of what he recalls Manitoba Arts Council Art Bank Collection. amounts to “misinformation.” Curating since 2003, he began research for the project in 2008 after moving back LOWER LEFT: Alec, photograph. to Winnipeg from Vancouver. It was around that same time that Molodowic was released from a mental health Collection of J. J. Kegan McFadden. institution in Brandon, and as McFadden revisited the incident, sifting through the documents of different courts, BELOW RIGHT: Diana Pura (Thorneycroft), he realized just how much came as revelation. Jar on Fabric 6/30, lithograph on paper, 1987. Though McFadden’s mother (who helped him sort out fact from memory), is “completely petrified” of the Manitoba Arts Council Art Bank Collection. show, McFadden insists the exhibition is not sentimental for him in any way — rather, he thinks of himself as a kind of anthropologist or ethnographer. This past September, he became an archaeologist, literally digging up “junk” from his grandfather’s property. He dug up many of the objects featured at the AGSM which, when juxtaposed with the Art Bank material, creates what he calls a “blurred” interpretation — Object A plus Object B equals Object C. McFadden was searching for examples of coincidence and symmetry in all elements of the exhibition, as in the case of a 4' x 4' photograph of a vintage clothing store, with its female proprietor dressed as if in mourning. At the entrance to the show, the artist has lined up approximately 25 landscape images: etchings, photographs and paintings butted up along the clear horizon line, the one constant element. It was, McFadden says, the horizon Alec beheld all his life on the rural Manitoba prairies, “the same horizon we all see.” Across from that, a wall is covered with images of interiors — “different versions of home and comfort,” which McFadden describes as a domestic salon. In the centre he’s placed what he calls an interpretation of melancholy, black and white images to evoke the murder itself. The artist has created a satellite show in the Oseredok Ukrainian Cultural Centre in Winnipeg, where he’ll display family photographs, echoing on Alec’s Ukrainian heritage. “The idea is to offer this backward look at what eventually happened, and to collapse Alec’s life into a series of ‘circles,’” McFadden says. Despite his professed emotional detachment, however, he admits: “I run the risk of it being almost too personal at times.” — Kenton Smith

18 Galleries West Summer 2012

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Charles Carson: “Parc Tairona III”

Denis Moreau: “Reflet de vie”

Humberto Pinochet: “Les hommes de la mer”

Andrew Millar: “Goat Pond”

Branko Marjanovic: “Fog Approaching”

1223B 9th Avenue SE, Calgary AB T2G 0S9 | 403-262-5011 | ��

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Galleries West Summer 2012 19

PREVIEWS AND PROFILES

TRANSART COLLECTIVE

BRITISH COLUMBIA: Connecting the Dots, March 24 to June 9, Kamloops Art Gallery; June 15 to July 12, Thompson Rivers University Art Gallery, Kamloops; June 15 to July 28, Arnica Artist Run Centre, Kamloops An ambitious grassroots art project in Kamloops aims to connect the dots between more than 30 international, national and regional artists. Organized by Kamloops artist Tricia Sellmer, the unthemed exhibition in three venues lets the community explore work by artists from the Transart Collective, a group of international alumni, faculty and advisors affiliated with the Transart Institute, a low-residency graduate program based in Europe that calls itself “the unschool”. Sellmer, who completed her MFA through Transart in 2009, says the project demonstrates the tremendous opportunities the digital age offers artists. “Connecting the Dots reflects the notion that artists, either locally or globally, are able to come together, connect, and give voice to different ideas, issues and themes,” she says. “This notion becomes increasingly apparent when today, we’re not only connected through digital media and technology, but also seem to rely on this digital and social phenomena in our everyday lives.” Sellmer says the project, the largest she’s organized, was originally envisioned on a much smaller scale for Arnica, the city’s artist-run centre. She put out a call for local artists and spread the word through her friends in the Transart community. The response was overwhelming. Although little funding was available, international artists — who can send work inexpensively on computer discs or in mailing tubes — jumped at the opportunity. Two other venues, the Kamloops Art Gallery and the Thompson Rivers University Art Gallery, soon offered to show some of the work. “I didn’t expect the response I received,” says Sellmer, who is presenting one of her own videos about the landscape of the B.C. Interior. “It really became an art project from me just throwing things out and seeing what would happen.” The first phase was launched at the Kamloops Art Gallery in March with videos that explore time and space by Berlin-based artist Astrid Menze and Doug Buis, a professor at Thompson Rivers University. The videos are projected so that clouds in Buis’ work drift across the gallery walls and mingle with images of Menze, who seems TOP: Doug Buis, Cloud 4, 2002. to float through interior spaces along with various domestic objects. ABOVE: Astrid Menze, all inclusive One of the highest-profile exhibitors is Khaled Hafez, a Cairo-based artist who blends ancient Egyptian HERE | THEN | THERE | NOW, still, imagery with contemporary themes. His work has been shown at international biennales and art institutions, single channel video, 30 min, 2010. including the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris and the Tate Modern in London. Several significant Western Canadian artists are participating, including Aganetha Dyck and her son, Richard, known for their work with bees and interspecies communication. Winnipeg artist Leah Decter’s work explores historical narratives, and Vancouver Island artist Heather Thomas, who focuses on the impact of war and other conflicts. Kamloops participants include two professors at Thompson Rivers University, Eileen Leier, who looks at the Adams River salmon run, and Ila Crawford, who deals with issues around women, visibility and aging. Sellmer says the project also includes emerging artists from Kamloops who are getting a unique opportunity to broaden their understandings of contemporary art practices. Sellmer isn’t sure how many Transart artists will visit Kamloops, but notes that planning is underway for workshops, talks and other public events. Sellmer is publishing a catalogue on a shoestring budget by printing cards that can be inserted into plastic sleeves. “I think art should be really accessible,” she says. “If you have a voice, you find a way to express it.” — Portia Priegert 20 Galleries West Summer 2012

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Spitfire Steps, by David More, Studio View

Benalto artist David More has created a body of work that explores gardens as imaginary havens, as the seats of memory, and as places of refuge from personal turmoil.

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4525 - 47A Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 6Z6 403.309.8405 www.reddeermuseum.com

Galleries West Summer 2012 21

THE COLLECTORSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; GALLERY OF ART

HEDDA ZAHNER Orange Orchids, oil on canvas, 40â&#x20AC;? x 48â&#x20AC;?

BEWABON SHILLING Clothesline Series #1, oil on canvas, 36â&#x20AC;? x 36â&#x20AC;?

JOHN SNOW Green Curtain, stone litho, 14â&#x20AC;? x 18â&#x20AC;?

DEALERS OF FINE CANADIAN PAINTINGS AND SCULPTURES 1332 - 9 AVENUE SE, CALGARY, AB T2G 0T3 4%, s &!8 MAIL CGOART COM s WWW CGOART COM

22 Galleries West Summer 2012

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Galleries West Summer 2012 23

REVIEWS

What we saw at exhibitions in the West

Beyond Vague Terrain: The City and the Serial Image, January 15 to March 15, 2012, Surrey Art Gallery

The city of Surrey, no longer a cross-eyed suburb next to Vancouver’s “real” urbanity, is engaged in a serious course of city-making. It’s spending nearly three billion dollars on a series of projects (a new city hall, central library and plaza) all within a stone’s throw of each other, and for the first time, Surrey’s planners and politicians have built themselves the suggestion of a true city centre. Just in time, the Surrey Art Gallery’s curator, Jordan Strom, has produced a bellicose, intelligent show that interrogates the notion of having a city centre at all. Beyond Vague Terrain includes work by photoconceptual kingpins Jeff Wall and Ian Wallace (it would hardly begin its conversation without them) but the most captivating moments in Strom’s show arise from other sources. For starters, Roy Kiyooka’s black-and-white Powell Street Promenade (1978-80) makes a major downtown street look like a surreal wasteland. His promenade takes place at a “no-place” that is about as sexy as grandma’s underwear. Then we have Chris Gergley’s wonderful Vancouver Apartments series (2005). These photographs of apartment foyers show differently decked cubes of over-lit space that are weirdly akin, with faux glamour names like “Cedar Villa” emblazoned in gold lettering across glass doors, never-in-style carpets and tired potted plants. As in Kiyooka’s street scene, Gergley finds banal moments quite close to the so-called “heart” of Vancouver (his apartments, while dispirited, are stubbornly urban too). We begin to recognize a disinterest in anything monumental or iconic. Indeed, many of the images in Beyond Vague Terrain are serial, and emphatically so. Perhaps the most strident example of the refusal to localize is Khan Lee’s trippy piece Millennium Line (2011), which circles an entire room with a 109-foot long backlit ribbon of photographic transparency, displaying hundreds of stitchedtogether video images taken from the window of a Skytrain as it shuttles between suburban stations. Lee’s piece replicates that woozy, forehead-against-window sense of a whizzing-by landscape. We barely distinguish one station from the next and, in the inaccessible patches of urbanity beyond, we glimpse snatches of highway, gas stations and parking lots. By crystallizing such a time-lapsed experience into a single visual moment, Lee gives us access not to just another spree of suburban visual blah, but real insight into the otherwise-invisible system that creates and 24 Galleries West Summer 2012

Khan Lee, Millennium Line (detail), underlines that “blah.” Lee’s Skytrain trip in the suburbs is carefully spliced to- 2011, backlit photographic gether, to make comprehensible a larger transparency. rhythm that would otherwise be lost. On opening night, I joined the crowd being drawn in by the intelligence and wry humour of Bill Jeffries’ Panopticon: 103 Views of the Scotia Bank Tower (1978/79). Jeffries’ silver gelatin prints document the intense presence of that 450-foot tower at a time when it dominated Vancouver’s skyline. The Scotia logo, a glowing red eye, peers outward and is glimpsed from 103 different vantage points at the perimeter of the city. Jeffries appears to reference Foucault’s notion of the Panopticon — the all-seeing prison tower. In Foucault’s 1975 book, Discipline and Punish, he describes how no one can see the prison guard, only the tower. Looming architecture becomes its own authority. Jeffries’ bank tower images speak to a similarly unquestioned authority. Could a traditional, centralized cityscape be a kind of visual despotism? Beyond Vague Terrain is more than a return to the “defeatured” suburban landscapes celebrated in earlier decades. It deconstructs that centre-perimeter dichotomy. Perhaps, as our car-culture becomes increasingly problematic and our cities stumble toward some brave new organization, we’ll discover “the centre cannot hold” after all. — Michael Harris

Kent Tate: Movies for a Pulsing Earth, March 3 to April 29, 2012, Art Gallery of Swift Current

You enter a large white room where nine wide-format flat-screen video monitors are hung in groups of three on three of the walls. In one corner and positioned to view all of the monitors, though its eyes appear sightless, is an internally-illuminated resin bust of an androgynous human viewer, mounted on a four-foot pedestal. Images of spectacular landscapes play on the monitors — animals interact with their environments, humans casually go about their ordinary lives. The room is filled with re-mixed NASA satellite sound recordings of the interaction of the solar wind with the Earth’s magnetosphere. Though gallery visitors are surrounded by moving images, the structure of Kent Tate’s Movies for a Pulsing Earth encourages a more active engagement. Viewers www.gallerieswest.ca

SUMMER IM P R E S S IO N S

JILL HOBSON - All I Count is Here and Now June 5 - 30

JEREMY FOKKENS - Inspiration July 31 - Sept 1

ART GALLERY & FRAMING STUDIO

DOUG SWINTON The Naked Truth May 1 - June 2 PETER PREST - Local Colour - July 3 - 28

1207 - 5th Ave. N.W. Calgary, Alberta T2N 0S1 Tel: 403-244-3688 www.framedonfifth.com

May 18 Min Ma Neil Patterson June 8

artymgallery.com â&#x20AC;˘ Invermere BC

Alex Fong Danny McBride June 29 Rod Charlesworth Jeff Fleming July 21 Angela Morgan

August 10 Maya Eventov

Maya Eventov

250.342.7566 - info@artymgallery.com www.gallerieswest.ca

Galleries West Summer 2012 25

REVIEWS

Installation view: Kent Tate: Movies for a Pulsing Earth, Art Gallery of Swift Current.

start with one monitor, move to another, try to take in three at once, turn back to earlier scenes, all while the silent viewing figure in the centre watches with them. Volcanoes erupt and lava flows in Hawaii. A male bison in Theodore Roosevelt National Park observes the viewer then rolls in the dust. An ever-vigilant prairie dog somehow doesn’t sense our presence. The camera tracks drivers in California, on Vancouver Island, near Banff, and they appear, disappear, come to rest half-buried in the earth. People travel, observe, act and interact. Men and machines work. A house near Dollard, Saskatchewan burns to the ground. A lake swells with rain, and giant clouds roll, casting huge shadows over some of the largest and most primitive landscapes in North America. One camera anchors a remote vista in Saskatchewan’s Ravenscrag Formation, as if you were there all day. Tate was born in Rivers, Manitoba, and now lives and works in southwestern Saskatchewan. He’s a painter and sculptor turned film-maker who has, until this exhibition, shown his work at screenings and festivals, one movie at a time. Perhaps it’s the knowledge he’s absorbed from earlier interests that allow his oddly static images to shape our perception of a kind of timelessness. And it’s this feeling of timelessness within the individual videos and in the overall exhibition that suggest Tate stepping around or beyond the values of many of his colleagues in Canadian video art practice. There’s no narrative here, unlike the suggestion of story we see in the work of artists like David Hoffos, Paul Wong, or Shawna Dempsey and Lori Millan. Tate draws on the original meaning of “moving pictures” while pulling his viewer into an experience-in-the-round greater than the sum of its parts. Absorbing each section of the exhibition, relationships amInstallation view: Babak Golkar: Grounds for Standing and Understanding, Charles H. Scott Gallery, Vancouver. 26 Galleries West Summer 2012

plify and meaning takes shape, and as a viewer I felt clearer about my connection to the earth. Tate’s patient and gorgeous photography and demanding sequential editing, his use of a subtle yet noticeable presence of sound, and his creation of the silent watcher, combined with curator Kim Houghtaling’s insistence on our physical involvement with the work, allow a rare understanding of what it really means to engage with the “pulsing” planet we live on. — Laureen Marchand Babak Golkar: Grounds for Standing and Understanding, January 18 to February 26, 2012, Charles H. Scott Gallery, Vancouver

There is a “sometime” rule in nature whereby patterns will repeat as fractals - a single leaf mimics the pattern of a branch, the branch mimics the pattern of a tree and so on. Some take this as evidence of a higher intelligence, and others as proof of life’s mechanical, blind, godlessness. But, whether fractals are expressions of divinity or merely of mathematical laws, they do exist (to the human eye) as evidence of beauty, of some mysterious “rightness.” What child, on realizing a leaf from the fern frond is a miniature of the larger thing, doesn’t stare a little in wonder? And it’s that wonder, I’d argue, that Vancouver artist Babak Golkar mines in his installation at the Charles H. Scott Gallery. The central imaginative moment in Golkar’s Grounds for Standing and Understanding is a Persian carpet that he’s covered with architectural models (in wood, painted white) of Dubai-worthy towers. The viewer quickly realizes though that these toy towers are actually three-dimensional extensions of the patterns in Golkar’s rug. It’s an expression worthy of semi-

Emanuel Licha: Striking A Pose, January 20 to February 25, 2012, PAVED Arts, Saskatoon. Reviewed by Lissa Robinson.

Striking A Pose is one part of a larger exhibition, curated by Quebec’s Marie-Hélène Leblanc, focusing on the video works of Paris- and Montrealbased artist Emanuel Licha. At PAVED, Leblanc brought together two video installations — R for Real and Mirages — that take us into calculated structures and strategies of conflict control, while asking us to reconsider the lens (or frame) through which we observe or report violent events. Included are some surprising concepts that mock the way that reality TV and Hollywood shape the way we receive and view news. Find the complete review online at www.gallerieswest.ca www.gallerieswest.ca

The 31st Annual Calgary Stampede

WESTERN ART SHOW JULY 6 - 15, 2012

WESTERN ART AUCTION JULY 12, 2012 at 5pm ~ Tickets $75 Palomino Room, BMO Centre, Stampede Park For more information please call 403.261.0573 or visit

calgarystampede.com/westernshowcase

Western Oasis, Halls D & E, BMO Centre, Stampede Park

Art Auction Gallery Artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Studios Artist Ranch Project Western Photo Gallery

It turns out that back in 1928, MEDALTA Manager Charles Pratt, probably brimming with confidence after his pottery was dubbed â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;CANADAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WEDGEWOOD,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; made a promise too good to keep secret. During an interview with Macleanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Magazine, he promised that if a piece of Medalta pottery or stoneware wore out before 3,000 years had passed, it could be returned for a refund of the original purchase price. Now, as far as we can tell, no one at Medalta ever actually repealed the 3,000 YEAR WARRANTY. And until we find the proper paperwork (which may take a while ...), it still stands.

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So if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in MEDICINE HAT, Alberta and happen to have a worn-out piece of Medalta pottery (which is unlikely ... weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re sure itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the finest you can find), bring it by our MUSEUM & GIFT SHOP and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll cheerfully refund the original purchase price. Just as Pratt said. And since the Museum is actually in Medalta (which just so happens to be a century old in 2012), why not take a TOUR while youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here? Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll likely learn how your newlyrefunded piece was created, in the factory which originally created it.

Galleries West Summer 2012 27

REVIEWS

Gallery, Regina.

psychedelic films like Pan’s Labyrinth, or perhaps simply the stories of Lewis Carroll. We instinctually imagine the towers rising, like so many loaves of bread, from the tightly scrolled and fugue-like patterns of the rug. The rest of the gallery, a single box of a room, has been interrupted by a maze of white walls, a scaled-up version of the angles and patterns seen in those abstracted towers. The wall element (roughly finished, unfortunately) dominates the gallery-goer in the same way the gallery-goer dominates those tiny buildings on the rug. Which brings us to the first kind of fractal Golkar’s work invokes. This is a standard fractal which expresses a regressive idea of scale the same way a fern leaf does. The rug holds an almost primordial codex, a simple, two-dimensional math. This is then expounded by Golkar’s model buildings, though the patterns of the rug are still legible. When Golkar takes things one step further, making the walls of the gallery into even larger abstractions of the rug’s pattern, the viewer loses a sense of the pattern’s purity. As with life, we cannot see the pattern, the rules, and the logic of things, except during those rare moments when we’re granted a bird’s eye view. But the second kind of fractal, and perhaps the more interesting one, is a play on time, instead of space. The art of the Persian carpet dates back at least to 500 B.C. That Golkar would find, encoded within the carpet, a blueprint for towers recently constructed in the Middle East is a kind of magic in itself. Dubai begins to look like a mere expression of some ancient cultural DNA. Of course, the meaning or “message” of these ancient patterns is fuzzy at best, coming to us through the gauze of history and all the way from antiquity. But, then, ferns are much older than that. The beauty of fractals after all is the way they spin themselves inexorably out forever and forever. Even if we can’t properly read them, we can still marvel at the gifts they bring — be they a three-inch leaf or the 200-storey Burj Khalifa. The Burj’s architect, after all, was inspired by the organizing principles of a simple desert flower. — Michael Harris Edward Poitras: 13 Coyotes, January 21 to April 22, 2012, Mackenzie Art Gallery, Regina

Curated by Michelle Lavallee, this new exhibition of work by Edward Poitras has two distinct flavours in two different galleries. The Ipsco gallery room contains a condensed survey of pieces from recent group exhibitions alongside new works that have barely had time to dry. The Kenderdine gallery’s installation offers an austere site of contemplation. 28 Galleries West Summer 2012

The Ipsco gallery installation has a museological feel to it — the tightly knit works are accompanied by labels, velvet ropes, “do not touch” signs, desks and written material the audience is invited to read — or fill out as is the case with the “renunciation of citizenship” forms. The historical and political nature of this work, along with its condensed installation, might read as a retrospective if so much of the work wasn’t dated 2012 (no small feat for an exhibition which opened 21 days into the year). Though Poitras (the first Aboriginal artist to represent Canada at the Venice Biennale ) has never had a retrospective, this exhibition seems to attempt it in some small way, but the room, while accomplished, is left physically crowded and theoretically over-extended from the effort. Contrary to the dense analytical space offered in the Ipsco gallery, the Kenderdine gallery is sparsely populated with discreet arrangements. The two installations in this room, Tree and Ground, set 13 Coyotes apart as a powerful exhibition. Most of the room is occupied by Ground, an installation of tightly bound cloth molded into the form of coyotes, and a large circle of rice and stones around a sculpture of a coyote, made of coyote bones. On each wall is a painted door with a single word in Helvetica bold: BULL, LION, EAGLE, MAN referring to the four constellations and cardinal directions that mark the 26,000-year calendar of the procession of the equinox. This notion of extended time also comes into the figure of a cloth-bound

Rodney Konopacki and Rhonda Neufeld: Drawn Passages, January 5 to March 22, Vernon Public Art Gallery. Reviewed by Katie Brennan.

For most traditional visual artists, the process of making art is a solitary affair. So it’s intriguing to see what happens when one artist suggests to another “let’s make art together.” Rodney Konopaki and Rhonda Neufeld began in 2007 to collaborate with drawing and printmaking. At first glance, the 20 drawings and prints in the exhibition appear to be amorphous clouds of random drawn marks; the titles of the work reading somewhat like diary entries: June 7, 2010 - A Walk to the Rooms in the Rain and Mr. Peterson’s Backyard. Find the complete review online at www.gallerieswest.ca www.gallerieswest.ca

TOP: PHOTO BY DON HALL, MACKENZIE ART GALLERY

Edward Poitras, installation view, Ground and Tree, Mackenzie Art

Just Imajan Gallery Canadian Art & Antiques

Carmen Miller

Janet B. Armstrong

www.justimajan.com Pain�ngs

Stained Glass

Ceramics

Photography

Unique An�que Collec�on

Gallery

403-932-7040 • info@jus�majan.com • 320 1st Street W. in Downtown Cochrane, Alberta

Wendy Wacko

Nicholas Bott

Opening Reception May 12, 1 - 4 PM. Artist in Attendance.

Opening Reception June 2, 1 - 4 PM. Artist in Attendance.

May 12 - 26

4FB -JPOT PO UIF 3PDLT Oil on Canvas, 36” x 48”

June 2 - 16

#BNGJFME )BSCPVS Oil on Canvas, 30” x 40”

Galleries West Summer 2012 29

REVIEWS

Scott McFarland, Corner of the Courageous, Repatriation Ceremony for Private Tyler William Todd, Grenville St., Toronto, Ontario, April 14, 2010, inkjet print, 2011, 59.5” x 165”.

coyote sculpture in Ground that appears to pass through a portal. In his artist’s talk, Poitras used the portal to reference quantum tunneling, a phenomenon that demonstrates that even the most unlikely events have an infinitesimally small chance of occurring — anyone who tried long enough to pass through a wall eventually would. Poitras plants concepts of this devotion to faith and patience throughout the room, through the use of prayer cloths, keys to unseen locks and other astrological, physical and spiritual references. Walking through Poitras’ environment encourages a meandering and contemplative pace. The unravelled teepee of Tree inspires the desire to camp in wait for some unknown yet significant moment to arrive, while the visual momentum of the coyotes invited me to track a perpetually receding epiphany. Rather than attempting to pin down a meaning which only becomes less distinct when confronted directly, Poitras’ installation encouraged me to simply sit, wait and be, allowing meaning to unravel organically — hoping for the revelation of something outside of our understanding of existence, for something seemingly impossible but statistically inevitable. — John G. Hampton Scott McFarland: Winter Retreating Spring Offence, March 29 to May 5, Monte Clark Gallery, Vancouver

When a Canadian soldier dies in Afghanistan, his or her body (if there is a body left) is repatriated at a ceremony on Toronto’s Grenville Street. A mixed lineup of militia, firefighters, and onlookers salutes the fallen soldier’s return. This stands in marked contrast to the American practice, which hides or hushes the return of its dead soldiers. American gallery-goers, then, were especially moved to discover the Canadian custom in new work by Toronto photographer Scott McFarland. On one wall of the Monte Clark Gallery, an enormous inkjet print with the title Corner of the Courageous, Repatriation Ceremony for Private Tyler William Todd, Grenville St., Toronto, Ontario, April 14th 2010 spans 165 inches in length and 60 inches in height. It shows, as the title so diligently outlines, the repatriation of Private Tyler William Todd, which took place April 14, 2010. An unknown number of images have been stitched together to create McFarland’s sweeping depiction of the open-air assembly. We see the askew stares of saluting officials, studying various points of interest invisible to the viewer — Private Todd’s body is out of frame, and en route. The stitched shots produce a forced, wide-angle vista and an awkward perspective, a sense of slight wrong-ness or tension. (The subject itself is, of course, a disruption of ordinary life on a city street.) And yet the human eye does not immediately decipher what has gone wrong with the world. Perhaps calling McFarland a photographer at all is to miss the point. It would be more appropriate to say he paints with light after gathering a wealth of samples from particular sites. The word “photography” is still conflated with notions of 30 Galleries West Summer 2012

capturing singular moments, and McFarland is interested in confounding that assumption. By inviting the eye to embrace multiple perspectives and “shots” at once, his work bends time and space to give us comprehensive, impossible visions. Yet the finished pieces are not demanding in the same way a cubist painting might be as there is nothing illegible. Or, at least nothing immediately so. Rather, McFarland’s artworks — like the history paintings they are in league with — each have an insidious problem, something viral and quiet that will only disrupt a patient viewer. The exhibition’s title — Winter Retreating Spring Offence — makes reference to the Taliban’s springtime attacks in Afghanistan but also, more literally, to the changing of seasons. On the wall facing the repatriation image, hangs an equally large, idealized inkjet landscape, titled Cheltenham Badlands that transforms from spring to winter as the eye scans left to right. Again, the wrongness, the un-reality of the finished vista is at once apparent and unnoticed. Arcadian forests, happy light and mild snow trip easily into each other. There is a subversive beauty to the scene, which lends a sense of rightness despite the fabrication. Over the springtime forests at the image’s left hangs a low, hazy, winter sun. McFarland’s pairing of these two grand images (amongst a few smaller studies) lends a political charge to his nature scene (withered farmland) and universality to his repatriation ceremony (the tides of life and death). Neither of the grand works can be adequately described by listing their technical wonders, though. They form cohesive wholes, pictorially and emotively, so that the viewer can perceive some larger truth than our limited perceptions normally allow. Like all the greatest photographs (and all the greatest paintings) they race back and forth between a world full of hard, implacable things and our subjective, foolish, vision. — Michael Harris

Beat Nation: Art Hip Hop and Aboriginal Culture, February 25 to June 3, 2012, Vancouver Art Gallery. Review by Beverly Cramp.

Northwest coast First Nations artists have long been known for their carving and weaving creations, from monumental totem poles to intricate basketry to designed woollens. They have also been lauded for their ongoing embrace of innovation in response to environmental change — so what does that tradition look like today in an age of technology, change and the influence of new media, new music and an explosion of fresh, contemporary expression? Beat Nation looks into this cultural collision of urban youth culture and Aboriginal identity, and it’s at once shocking, exhilarating, humorous, excoriating, angry, poetic and full of beauty. Find the complete review online at www.gallerieswest.ca www.gallerieswest.ca

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RENDEZVOUS ART GALLERY Contemporary Canadian Art

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LINES AND COLOURS EXHIBITION All new works by Shirley Elias, Roger Luko and Shirley Thompson Opening June 29, 2012 RendezVous Art Gallery 323 Howe Street Vancouver, BC V6C 3N2 604 687-7466 info@rendezvousartgallery.com www.rendezvousartgallery.com

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FEATURE REVIEW

GREG PAYCE: ILLUSIONS FEBRUARY 2 TO MAY 6, 2012, GARDINER MUSEUM, TORONTO BY DOUGLAS MACLEAN Greg Payce, Valhalla, 2011, Thrown porcelain forms with coloured slip banding produced from 2005 to 2011. Dedicated to Valerie Leigh. Below: Octopus Vase, earthenware with

RIGHT: COLLECTION OF THE ARTIST. ABOVE:COLLECTIONS OF THE AFA, GARDINER MUSEUM AND THE ARTIST

terra sigillata, 1992.

As visitors to Toronto make their way to the Royal Ontario Museum, they often miss the wonderful small Gardiner Museum across the street. There it sits, a work of architectural perfection, quietly housing one of the most phenomenal collections of ceramics in all of Canada. Built by philanthropist George Gardiner and his wife Helen in 1984, the museum is truly a hidden gem. These past few months it’s been home to an exhibition of the brilliance of Calgary artist Greg Payce, and his independent vision of what ceramics are and what they can be, as well as the curating talent of Amy Gogarty, an ex-Calgarian who now lives in Vancouver. A painter herself, Gogarty shows a subtle, challenging style in her curating of this important show. Payce’s work first came into my view many years ago when my wife brought two of his works home to add to her growing collection of ceramics. Beautiful and elegant, surprising in the seemingly fragile material, both works still amaze me to this day. I began to follow his work at the Prime Gallery in Toronto (now closed) and watched his work evolve. When he started to incorporate the “figurative factor” as I call it, a technique that’s as much about the negative space between objects as it is about the objects themselves, Payce’s work became fascinating. So on a recent visit to Toronto, the chance to see 40 years of his work in one place was too much to pass by. Walking through the doors, I was immediately introduced to a large window box displaying small sketches, materials, bits of colour, notes and all the studio paraphernalia that surrounds www.gallerieswest.ca

Payce, enriching his conception of ceramics. It was a thought-provoking introduction of what was to come. To the immediate right was Payce’s first negative figure porcelain work, White Vase Pair (2004). A video box was also in place featuring Conjunction (2005), which played images of spinning porcelain vessels, giving viewers a hint of how his practice would evolve beyond the creation of art as an object. On the second floor among the Gardiner’s historical collection, housed in a space called the Focus Gallery, surrounded by incredible ceramics from all over the world, Payce’s work in glass cases took viewers through decades of his work. Sensitively curated, the chosen pieces established a firm connection between historical ceramic-making and Payce’s contemporary work. On the third floor, it’s clear how well his pieces also work with the architecture of the gallery. The vast space was perfect for displaying Payce’s lenticular images — large-scale, textured photography of the work that appears to move as the viewer crosses in front of it. Seeing these large prints of Payce’s figurative ceramics move across the surface was unlike anything I had ever seen. Valhalla (2011) is inspired by the artist’s travel in Korea. Taken as a grouping, it’s a forest of delicate forms and robust colour. Taken as a selection of individual pieces, it suggests pagoda architecture. The work was six years in the making and is now part of the Gardiner Museum collection. The Customs and Spirit of the Nations (2011), another lenticular work, is a series of four individually titled images, each using two Galleries West Summer 2012 33

vessel forms that create a profile of a male silhouette, delineated by a variety of objects inspired by Voltaire, Mexican tableware, and orientalist decoration, creating another layer of historical and personal iconography — a deep reference to Payce’s interest in historical forms and decoration. The objects in the spaces between Payce’s vessels touch on early cinematographer Eadweard Muybridge, forms from the ancient cultures of Greece, Minoa, China, Korea, and beyond, a layered historical foundation that lifts each work, made most clear to viewers in the final gallery, where the walls were covered in floor-to-ceiling projected images. Fascinating to watch, I was trying to capture each individual reference when I finally succumbed to just enjoying the experience. In video, Payce is exploring further, pulling wheel-thrown vessels, historical imagery, light and colour into a larger, moving canvas. And in the third-floor gallery, he’s created a work that projects images of the museum’s historical collections on a carpet dedicated to Helen Gardiner, a “moving” tribute to the couple that made the collection possible.

Q & A: GREG PAYCE

Greg Payce, Claire, powdercoated turned aluminum, 2010. 34 Galleries West Summer 2012

You’ve exhibited in places as far away as Poland, South Korea, and Australia. Now you’ve got a prestigious show at the Gardiner. What do you attribute to being successful and staying in Calgary? I’m not successful in a way that I can stop doing what I’m doing. It’s more of a critical success than anything else. I choose to live here. I like Calgary, for the most part. It’s odd because I don’t fit in politically at all. But there are a lot of really good artists in town and they’re starting to get recognition as important Canadian artists. It’s a reasonably sized city with lots of good cultural stuff, but it’s not Toronto, where you’re up against a lot of high-powered cliques. www.gallerieswest.ca

LEFT: COLLECTION OF THE ARTIST.

In his four decades of making ceramics, Calgarian Greg Payce has continually challenged the notion that the form is passé, best left in the service of dinnerware. Illusions, his recent show at Toronto’s Gardiner Museum, hammers home his creative convictions by incorporating negative space, video and 3D photography. “Both Greg and I thought it was extremely important that such an innovative solo show be given a proper theoretical and historical context,” says Amy Gogarty, guest curator for Illusions. Payce recommended Gogarty, his former Alberta College of Art and Design colleague, to outgoing Gardiner curator Charles Mason to fill the role of “shaping the narrative of the exhibition, helping viewers to understand how (Payce’s) work draws on a very broad knowledge and appreciation of historical ceramics,” she says. “And how this work evolved so that it could incorporate digital, mediabased elements while still remaining essentially ‘ceramic’.” The down-to-earth and frequently funny Payce took the time to chat in his studio in Calgary’s Inglewood district.

Installation view, Greg Payce: Illusions, Gardiner Museum, Toronto.

Speaking of Toronto, how do you feel about getting a show at the Gardiner? I think it’s about the right time for me. I’ve been doing this for 40 years. The Gardiner Museum is in transition from being a museum about historical ceramics to having a contemporary focus with this new, big gallery they have. I think they were having trouble getting the fine art community interested. I have my feet in a lot of different camps. Nobody will have me completely — the fine art types or the craft types [laughs]. This show kind of bridges all of that. You’ve talked about the importance about staying focused on your chosen discipline, and to fully realize themes and become more articulate as an artist, do you see this show as a culmination of that? It’s not really a retrospective because there is probably 25 years worth of work before the earliest piece in the show, which is from 1995 or ‘96. It shows long-term research with a particular area of fascination. I’m articulate in my medium because I’ve stuck with it. I think that’s sort of the show. I don’t think as artists, we have a lot of incredibly different, original ideas. You can trace the seeds of everything in that show to a few things that I did before. They may not look the same conceptually, but it’s very similar. Was there a particular experience that made you want to work illusions into your ceramics? I visit every museum I can. There were these things called Albarrelli back in the Renaissance. They were waisted jars for storage. You line big jars with straight sides up on a shelf and you can’t get your fingers in between. So they made up this idea of the waist. I saw a row of these once and I thought, “Wouldn’t be interesting to do something with the space in between them.” Pottery is all based on human vessel forms like head, feet, belly, and lips. So I started putting people in between these things. www.gallerieswest.ca

The lenticular photographs come from being a guy who makes very fragile things, and having a demand for these things to be shown internationally. To pack up one of these pieces, ship it, and insure it is really unwieldy. If I can take an image of that, have it serve as a stand-in, and — if you walk by it — give the idea that this is three-dimensional piece; it seemed pretty cool to me. How do viewers react to the illusions? When you create that illusory space, you create this weird little world that you can get into. When you move, it looks like it’s interacting with you. So, there’s a strange non-verbal dialogue that goes on. People kind of get caught. People were much slower about the pieces that had the negative space in them because a lot of them didn’t get it at first. I’d get people going through shows saying, “Nice work and nice vases,” and they didn’t get the negative space images. Then they’d clue in to one and have to go back and look at the whole show again. How does teaching ceramics at ACAD fit into your career as an artist? I decided to get the job to support my art habit. I’ve kind of kept that goal and it’s proven to be a good one. I get a lot of the intermediate and upperlevel students working on individual projects. My job is to motivate them, inform them, stimulate them, and be a critical eye. That’s really fun. I love teaching. Watching the lights go on for people is amazing. If I’m not getting something back, they’re not getting it. Does it wind up being an inspiration for your work as well? I think so. I probably wouldn’t be doing things the way I do if I wasn’t a teacher; and also if I didn’t have a really rich institution full of creative minds. If I just stuck by myself and had to make a living off of what I made, I think I’d probably be doing something quite different. — Bob Keelaghan Galleries West Summer 2012 35

INTO THE VOID WITH NEW WORK THIS SUMMER IN CALGARY AND MASSACHUSETTS, JOHN WILL IS MAKING VERY MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING

PHOTO: ANDREW QUERNER

BY MARY-BETH LAVIOLETTE

36 Galleries West Summer 2012

www.gallerieswest.ca

At age 72, is there nothing left for John Will to do? His practice dates back to the early 1960s. His oeuvre encompasses printmaking and painting, performance, video, and photography. Lately though, the retired University of Calgary art professor has been working on a body of new text-based work defined by one word: “nothing”. Or, in other terminology used on occasion by the artist, “nada”,” zero”, “zilch”. In his attempt to, as Will says “make art about nothing”, he’s taken a minimal route. At his disposal, sheets of 22” x 30” paper and some acrylic — all of which look like something in the face of nothing. “It’s a difficult assignment but I still try,” Will says, deadpan. No kidding, as I was to discover on a recent visit to his garage studio in Calgary. The artist was in the midst of preparing for a solo exhibition in Calgary this spring, and conferring with the curators about new work for Oh, Canada. Will is one of 62 Canadians included in the much-anticipated exhi-

bition at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) near Boston, with a spot for his text-based piece right at the entrance to the show. He’s also awaiting the debut of a documentary on CBC Radio’s, Ideas. Produced by Jim Brown, the doc will include what the popular radio host is calling the “first visual art work made exclusively for radio”. At the heart of this new broadcast project will be Will’s current topic: nothing. Back in Will’s studio, though, a stack of his latest works awaited me. There were 125 of them on Arches paper with the word “Nothing” taking a starring role as theme, subject matter and image. Hand-lettered or stamped with an old printers’ font, brightly coloured, often scrawled and sometimes enhanced with spray-paint, it’s a dizzying parade of textuality made visual. The artist, I think, just can’t seem to help himself. Because there’s even more to come — pieces that mine a multitude of banal phrases like “Next to Nothing”, “Mad at Nothing”, “Think Nothing of It” and so on. Opposite: Artist John Will, in his Calgary studio. Below: John Will, Untitled (Ed Sanders), acrylic and photo on paper, 2011, 22" X 30".

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Galleries West Summer 2012 37

On the surface, Will seems to have set himself a peculiar assignment, but one suited to his iconoclastic temperament. It has all the makings of a quest; an attempt, perhaps, to make some sense of the human condition as he’s experienced it — some 40 years of contrarian, but at times poignantly humourous art about the absurdities of contem-

Art. Painted on canvas, Nothing (2009), hung as a kind of large-scale exclamation mark next to what Will considers to be his most ambitious work: Anything and Everything (1989-91). Consisting of 200 small paintings covered with a profusion of misspelled names of friends and acquaintances, cartoon figures and graffiti as well as small gems of contrarian advice —“don’t ever have an original idea” — Nothing was conceived to correct what the artist considered to be an error. When the new piece was added to Anything and Everything, it negated Will’s original intent for the 60’ by 8’ work. Rendered like a sign, in loud red and yellow lettering, as a parent to the many offspring the artist intends to show in Calgary in May, Will points out how he “has become a sort of sign painter” albeit “a bad sign painter”. He’s right. These pieces have little in common with the slickness of commercial sign-painting, but their graphic delivery and textual ravings do have something else going for them — wit, engagement, mind-games and, lurking underneath, a counter-culture sensibility. In one work, Will has included a small photo of poet, musician and activist Ed Sanders, co-founder of the underground rock group,

porary society and the art world. His work on celebrity and fame has received special attention, but so has other lesser-known material, like the 50th anniversaries of the atomic bomb (his brilliant photo and text work, Atomic Haiku, 1995) and the Roswell UFO “incident” (The Eighth King of Roswell, a video work from 1997). I’ve discovered that the origin of this most recent series dates back to an acrylic displayed in the 2010 Alberta Biennial of Contemporary 38 Galleries West Summer 2012

www.gallerieswest.ca

ARTWORK - PHOTO: SAM STAVES

ART SPRINGS FROM HIS VERY PARTICULAR RAMBLINGS AND SERENDIPITOUS ENCOUNTERS WITH LIFE, NOW AS AN AGING MAN

The Fugs. Their first album in 1964 had a song called Nothing, and Will took the photograph of Sanders in New York many years ago. I suspect that the song, with its skepticism and willingness to send up the feel-good anything-goes rhetoric of the times, was the spark that lit the work I see before me. A few of these works proclaim existentially-flavoured phrases like “Nothing is Coming” and “Nothing Beyond the Great Beyond.” Will, it seems, in his own inimitable way, has been dealing with the void, both literally and figuratively. His sources are both serendipitous and deliberate, both high- and low brow. They range from popular moments like “I Got Plenty ‘o Nuttin” from the musical, Porgy and Bess, to more intellectual ones in which greater minds have tackled the idea of nothingness. The artist, in particular, is drawn to the controversial 20th century German philosopher, Martin Heidegger, who wrote about the nature of Being. The way Will sees it, Heidegger correctly pointed out that we avoid the significance of nothingness because of the groundlessness of human existence. He adds that much of the new work revolves around the ultimate state of nothingness — death. “When I made my earlier work I had hope,” he wrote in a later email to me. “Now I don’t. In reworking some of my earlier work I tried to face this fact and purge them of any intended meaning. With the new works on paper I think I have not only faced it, but have accepted it.” Will’s comments reveal a stoic but certainly not a despairing frame of mind. He knows what awaits him, as we all ultimately do, and in part his new series tackles it with his characteristic wit and love of a well-turned phrase. On another level, then, this undercurrent of mortality suggests these works really are about something. Rather than dwelling on the process of making art with an attitude of art for art’s sake as many artists of his generation were apt to do, John Will engages with the larger social, cultural and political landscape. But in this scenario, as it has been many times in the past, art springs from his very particular ramblings and serendipitous encounters with life, now as an aging man. This aspect of the personal and the socially connective was one of the reasons why MASS MoCA curator Denise Markonish wanted to include his work in Oh, Canada. Her impression of Will is that of a senior artist whose sensibilities, both in content and aesthetics, align with contemporary concerns, despite his being of “another era”. He’ll be in good company in this respect, with work alongside that of artists including Eric Cameron, Michael Snow and Garry Neill Kennedy. “Will reinvents himself but sticks to his guns,” Markonish notes. “That makes him an example to younger artists.” On her cross-country investigations, which took three years and studio visits with 400 artists, the curator was intrigued too by the cross-generational connections she saw. Will, for instance, is well-known locally for the influence he’s exerted on younger artists like Mary Scott and Rita McKeough (the latter will also have work in Oh, Canada). Markonish was amazed by these close connections, given how strongly “generations can be odds with each other” in her own country. She considers Will to be an “artist’s artist” in that he has a following but has never really cracked through the consciousness of leading Canadian art institutions such as the National Gallery of Canada. His work, though popular, existing outside the establishment. Markonish’s own introduction to Will’s practice came via the grapevine. “A number of people told me I had to meet John Will,” she says. That advice, along with his contribution to the 2010 Alberta Biennial of Contemporary Art and an article about the artist by friend and painter Chris Cran in Canadian Art put Will on her list of artists to meet. If anything, Will’s inclusion in the show counts as one of those “eccentric” choices referred to in a recent Canadian Art interview with Markonish. Her choices have raised eyebrows because they overlook many of the art stars of Canadian contemporary art, and she acknowledges obvious omissions like Jeff Wall, Rodney Graham, Janet Cardiff, Liz Magor and the like. She adds that the very fact that her choices have aroused both surprise and excitement is a telling statement in itself. I agree that Oh, Canada seems less interested in bolstering the current canon than in reflecting some of the lesserknown but diverse creative energies the curator personally encountered. The largest survey of Canadian contemporary art ever undertaken by an American institution, of the 105 works on display, 10 are commission pieces, and one of the commissions is John Will’s. It’s a large text-based work, an offshoot of his on-going Nothing series. All Markonish will say at this point is that the commission is not a painting, but does involve the names of all the artists in the exhibition. Displayed as the first work in the Oh, Canada gallery, after more than 40 years of creative commentary and intervention, Will’s work is on track to raise a few more eyebrows yet. Nothing for Something, works on paper by John Will, debuts at Jarvis Hall Fine Art (Calgary) May 17 to June 16, 2012. Oh, Canada is on view at MASS MoCA, (North Adams, Massachusetts), May 27, 2012 to April 1, 2013. www.gallerieswest.ca

Opposite: John Will, Untitled (Equals Nothing), acrylic on paper, 2011, 22” X 30”. Left: Nothing, acrylic on canvas, 2010, 18' X 8". Galleries West Summer 2012 39

40 Galleries West Summer 2012

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RICK LEONG:

IMAGINARY LANDSCAPES

PHOTOS: TARA NICHOLSON

IN LUSH, LARGE-SCALE PANELS, THIS VICTORIA PAINTER DRAWS ON TRADITIONAL CHINESE TECHNIQUE TO CREATE SOMETHING THOROUGHLY CONTEMPORARY

BY MONIQUE WESTRA www.gallerieswest.ca

Victoria-based artist Rick Leong’s talent and originality were recognized relatively early in his career. One of his paintings was acquired by the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts while he was still a student at Concordia, where he graduated in 2007. The following year, he was a finalist in the nationally touring RBC Canadian Painting Competition, and he was taken on by Parisian Laundry Gallery, in Montreal. It’s an impressive start, but one that came out of a long search for focus. When he dropped out of high school and left home at 16, Leong was adrift. “I went from one job to another just trying to fend for myself,” he says. “I did everything from tree planting to cooking to cleaning, whatever I could do and often several jobs at once. I was gaining experience, taking life as it comes until I just got tired and wanted to focus.” Leong came from an creative family of writers and musicians. Growing up, he loved art as a hobby, so after a few years of wandering around the lower mainland, he had an epiphany of sorts. “I knew that if I didn’t make one solid effort to follow my passion for art, I would regret it for the rest of my life.” The result of that effort — at 35 Leong is in the early stages of a mature, rigorously intellectual career as a painter of extraordinarily seductive and lush, large-scale landscapes. His work seems entirely original and fresh, even as it’s grounded in tradition. “He’s obviously influenced by, and drawing from, Chinese and Canadian painting traditions but he’s doing it with such a contemporary sensibility,” says Nicole Stan- OPPOSITE: Rick Leong, Hypnagogia (detail), mixed bridge, curator at the Art Gallery of Greater Victomedia on panel, 2012, 5' X 12'. ria, where Leong will have his first public-gallery ABOVE: Oneiric Perception (detail), mixed media on solo show this summer. “He wants to understand panel, 2012, 48" X 48". Galleries West Summer 2012 41

where he comes from as an artist and as a painter.” This exhibition, called The Phenomenology of Dusk, is the result of both chance and intent. Stanbridge distinctly recalls that she happened upon an article about Leong while researching another project a few years ago. At the time, she was struck with the beauty and complexity of his work but was too busy to find out more about the artist, who was still living in Montreal at the time. When Leong sent a submission proposal to AGGV last year, Stanbridge immediately recognized him as the same artist she admired before. The Phenomenology of Dusk is based on a number of detailed pencil drawings created during a Can Serrat Residency in Barcelona in January 2012. The experience renewed Leong’s love of drawing and he decided to incorporate his drawings into his painting practice. “They’re very intricate and involved,” he says. “I feel that if I can lose myself in the making of the work, then the spectator can lose himself in the viewing of it.” All the paintings in the exhibition have a pronounced graphic quality and demonstrate Leong’s virtuosity and his labour-intensive creative process. Although he has a

ACROSS THE CULTURAL DIVIDE CHINESE CONTEMPORARY ART AND THE CANADIAN EFFECT

42 Galleries West Summer 2012

general idea at the onset, the graphite drawing on panel unfolds organically, gradually unfurled from his psyche and his imagination. Leong says, “I like to think of it as a dialogue with the work as I’m making it.” There are a couple of conflicting layers implicit in Leong’s meticulous and cleanly articulated style of painting. Its crisp linearity, intricacy and subtle colouration are reminiscent of the illustrations of 18th and 19th century naturalists, whose small, precise renderings of plants and animals documented visually verifiable data, demonstrating an absolute belief in science and truth in nature. Leong has appropriated the look and some of the techniques of objective scientific drawings, albeit on a much larger scale, to convey his very subjective, imaginary and intangible visions. His extraordinarily complex and compelling landscapes seem to originate in a natural world that is both familiar and strange. Leong’s monumental oil paintings are dazzlingly detailed but are ultimately cryptic and unknowable amalgams, “a synthesis of inspiration, observation, memory and imagination,” as he describes it. The sense of mystery inherent in Leong’s work is related to

There’s been a boom in Chinese contemporary art over the last decade, with new galleries, record auction sales and blockbuster exhibitions in the West. The effect has been so large and fast-paced that you would expect the trend to have an influence on the work and the market for Canadian artists of Chinese heritage. “It’s an interesting question,” says Keith Wallace, editor of Yishu, an English-language journal on contemporary Chinese art. “It would seem obvious, that there would be some interaction. But there isn’t a huge influence, that I Karen Tam, Orientally Yours, know of.” installation, 2007. Southern The different art systems in China and Alberta Art Gallery, Lethbridge.

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PHOTO: TREVOR MILLS, VANCOUVER ART GALLERY.

traditional Chinese landscape paintings, which were often shrouded in mist. At the same time, he takes his place in the long-standing Canadian legacy of landscape, though his works aren’t about specific places. They recall only generic characteristics that can be associated with types of landscapes in different regions of the country, creating as Stanbridge observes, “a record reiterated through memory and emotion.” Though most of Leong’s paintings are idealized and imaginary, much of his creative inspiration takes place on long walks and hikes. His paintings incorporate his memories and feelings about time and place. Each of Leong’s paintings is evocative, layered in meaning, suggestive of narrative, mysterious and deliberately open to interpretation. In The Phenomenology of Dusk, each work reveals echoes of an outer world, transformed by imagination and personal experience. In his own articulate analysis, Leong writes “It is a manifested landscape that is at once an echo of the outer and a reflection of the inner. It is a metaphysical delving into the psyche, equally shrouded in darkness yet glimpsed with the illumination of insight and intu-

ition.” In essence, Leong is fascinated by the flux of life, “the nebulous state of the unfixed.” His haunting landscapes feature birds and insects, flora and fauna as if in a dream. Ambiguity is the central motif of his intelligent work, which often depicts dusk, a time of day perceived as an in-between zone, neither day nor night, when mysterious creatures appear and when fading light plays tricks on the eye and mind, a time he says is “...encouraging the imagination to form the visible from the invisible. It is the intersection between light and dark, the known and the unknown, the conscious and the subconscious.” Perhaps Leong’s fascination with the state of being in-between is linked to his own heritage as a third-generation Chinese-Canadian. As a student, he was primarily interested in probing his dual identity, and was aware of the work of other Chinese-Canadian artists like Ken Lum, and contemporary Chinese artists like Ai Weiwei. But in his recent work, he’s much more interested in exploring philosophical and psychological issues with beautifully realized and lyrical works.

Canada are part of the reason, says Wallace, former director of the Contemporary Art Gallery in Vancouver. The Chinese system is more market-driven, and public galleries with permanent collections — a vital part of the Canadian system — don’t exist in China. And much of the Chinese writing about contemporary art is promotional rather than analytical. There’s also a limit there on freedom of expression. China is more open than it used to be, but culture remains subject to state control, and the imprisonment of Ai Weiwei, a prominent artist who ran afoul of authorities for criticizing China’s human rights record, is well known to the Canadian art community. Artists on either side of the ocean typically respond differently to issues in their immediate environment. Certainly, the Chinese avant-garde was influenced by Western art developments after the death of Mao in 1976. Artists engaged in what was called “reading fever” — devouring Western books and magazines that pointed to new approaches as they shifted from socialist realism to explore photography, installation and digital media. But the themes they explore typically remain tied to their experiences — ideas such as the rise of consumerism and the loss of tradition amid escalating change since the end of the Cultural Revolution. Wallace says some artists also create work about individuality within a collective society. “It’s hard to explain,” he says. “It’s quite complex. A lot of it is almost existential, in a sense, in terms of the individual, and a kind of loneliness in being an individual.” Canadian artists of Chinese heritage interpret culture in widely ranging styles. Vancouver artist Ken Lum, who has exhibited in Canada since the late 1970s, engages conceptually with the structures and systems of everyday life. Karen Tam, a younger Montreal-based artist, has attracted attention across Western Canada for the Chinese restaurants she recreates within galleries to explore histories of cultural exchange in communities. Henry Tsang, a professor at Emily Carr University whose work considers community and identity under globalization, cautions against coming to quick conclusions. “It’s hard to generalize, as there are significant differences between Chinese-Canadians who were born here, who immigrated here (and at what age and generation), from where, what kind of practice they have, and what relationship they have with China, whether it’s a romanticized one, for example fixed-in-time Chinatowns, or as exotic or foreign,” says Tsang. “But clearly they wouldn’t be seen as part of the new China art movements, and wouldn’t be able to promote themselves as such unless they came out of

Ken Lum, Panda, lacquer, Mainland China relatively recently.” Still, some artists do bridge the cultur- acrylic sheet, aluminum, 2007. al divide. One is Gu Xiong, a University of Collection of the Vancouver Art British Columbia professor who emigrated Gallery, gift of the artist. from China in 1989. His 2010 installation at the UBC Museum of Anthropology, Becoming Rivers, uses the Fraser and Yangtze rivers as metaphors for migration, and the formation of personal identity. He’ll exhibit the work, which includes photographs, an imaginary map and a flotilla of paper boats, in China this summer. Although a broader range of art is being shown in China, he notes that restrictions remain. “If Chinese society opens more to show different works, then that would be great,” he says. “But now, so far, there are some limits, some issues you cannot touch.” Vancouver-based artist Ho Tam was born in Hong Kong and educated in Canada, and he’s been working on publishing projects in China, including a recent book about Canadian photo-based artists. He’s also spent time researching his family’s history, but says he doesn’t know of other artists in China doing work about their roots, perhaps because the art world’s interest in identity issues has waned. “The idea of working with homeland, to a lot of

www.gallerieswest.ca

Galleries West Summer 2012 43

Leong’s solo exhibition is in the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria’s distinctive LAB space, a small gallery reserved for experimental, unusual and current contemporary art. Often, the art displayed in the LAB is so new that it’s seen in its completed form for the first time by curator and artist alike when the show is installed. The working title for a new installation Leong is creating for this show is Mise en abyme, referring to the disorienting visual and psychological sensation of standing between mirrors, and seeing a reflection infinitely reproduced. The artist, whose intellectual work is informed by philosophy and literature, adapts the idea both literally — in the construction of his mirrorbased installation — and conceptually. By actualizing a mise en abyme, Leong disrupts the viewer’s reality by suddenly immersing him in an illusory space and alternative world, a perceptual experience that’s at once real and surreal, tantalizingly elusive, shifting and cryptic. In Leong’s installation, he’s placed a peep-hole in the centre of a flat panel that reveals a detailed and animated world, filled with realistically rendered

insects, lichen and plants set into a completely encompassing, boundlessly receding space. The reflections of three mirrors give the installation the effect of infinity, a “strange loop” that reflects an image painted on the reverse of the panel. It’s a work about the disquiet of the abyss and the suspension of time and space. Hypnagogia, painted this year, is a huge triptych, the largest of the four works in the AGGV show. Its format and subject reminiscent of Chinese screens and textiles, featuring the graceful airborne dance of butterflies and moths, insects of the day and night, transformational in fact and imagination. The insects take a haphazard, ascending flight in a landscape defined by the intertwining, and rhythmic bends of tree limbs and branches converging in a lacy descending cluster of lichen in the central panel. The uniform steel grey in the background is the colour of dusk, the central metaphor of the exhibition. Rick Leong: The Phenomenology of Dusk, is on in the LAB Gallery at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, May 18 to August 6.

And Vancouver-based Yishu, which bills itself as the first English-language journal LEFT BELOW: Gu Xiong, Undergo, about contemporary Chinese c-print, 2005, 60" X 40". Courtesy Diane Farris art, is marking its 10th anniGallery, Vancouver. versary this year by launching a Chinese-language edition for distribution in China. Western collectors are increasingly interested in contemporary Chinese art, in part because it was a previously hidden society and the art world is always enchanted with the new. And the contemporary market’s prices have been driven higher by China’s wealthy new elite. The Economist, warning that buying Chinese art is not for the faint of heart, reported in 2011 that the Asian auction market had doubled over the two previous years, largely because of art sales. It noted that two of the world’s 10 most costly contemporary artists — Zhang Xiaogang and Zeng Fanzhi — are Chinese. Initially, much of the discourse about contemporary Chinese art came from outside the country’s borders. “Many well-known artists and curators left China after 1989 and moved to the West,” says Wallace. “Some have now moved back to China.” Beijing, considered the country’s intellectual capital, has a large and vibrant art community — particularly in the arts district known as 798. Meanwhile, in Shanghai, a biennale that began in 1996 continues to attract major international artists as well as leading collectors. Wallace points to a recent move in China to reclaim the country’s art discourse. “There’s often a comparison between China and the West,” he says. “A lot of intellectuals in China are trying to remove themselves from that discourse to try and to find out what their internal identity is.” Certainly, historical complexities and the tremendous pace of recent changes make understanding the Chinese art scene challenging for outsiders. A leading Chinese curator, Gao Minglu, has cautioned against simplistic analogies with Western conceptions of modern, post-modern and contemporary art. “It might still take a while before China’s contemporary art develops into an autonomous system — the present effort of narrating, reflecting on, and comparing contemporary Chinese art against the backdrop of art around the world being the premise for its future development,” he writes. “In fact, during past decades, or even the past century, art in China has assumed its own internal logic and pattern, leading to a structure of art that is now visible.” — Portia Priegert LEFT: Wang Jianwei, Yellow Signal-Position,

people it’s already been done 10 or 20 years ago,” he says. “So I think the interest is not as great these days.” Institutions in Vancouver have responded to the new prominence of Asian contemporary art. The Vancouver Art Gallery has organized shows by leading artists from China, including Huang Yong Ping, whose 2007 retrospective, House of Oracles, featured a monumental sculpture of a snarling tiger atop an elephant. Another important development was the 1999 establishment of Centre A, which focuses on contemporary Asian art. It’s organized exhibitions by Chinese artists, including this spring’s Yellow Signal, which features new media work by Wang Jianwei and Kan Xuan. 44 Galleries West Summer 2012

www.gallerieswest.ca

TOP: PHOTO BY HUA JIN, CENTRE A: VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR CONTEMPORARY ASIAN ART.

installation view, Centre A, Vancouver, 2012.

SITE SPECIFICS WITH A FINANCIAL PINCH ON PROJECTS AFTER THE OLYMPICS, VANCOUVER’S PUBLIC ART PROGRAM IS AT A CRUCIAL CROSSROADS BY BEVERLY CRAMP

ABOVE: Mexican artist Javier Marin created Cabeza Vainilla, Cabeza Cordoba, Cabeza Chiapas for the Landsdown Canada Line station in Richmond as part of the Vancouver Sculpture Biennale. www.gallerieswest.ca

Vancouver’s newest public art planner, Karen Henry, came to City Hall last November — just after the flurry of art projects fostered by the 2010 Cultural Olympiad’s multi-million dollar budget came to an end, and in the middle of the worst recession in decades. Politicians were being forced to get tight-fisted with public funding for community arts budgets, among many other things. The result — an eagerness in the community to see what will happen next. “At one of the last public art consultations I attended, it was clear that the majority of the people in the room want a change, they want higher standards,” says architecture critic and urbanist Trevor Boddy. “Quite frankly, we missed the boat when we didn’t effectively harness the real estate development industry’s potential to bring significant public art pieces to Vancouver.” Commercial partnerships are among the largest sources of support for public art. Under the Private Sector Development Stream, property developers seeking a re-zoning permit must contribute a small percentage of the building budget to public art on the site, or contribute the funds to the city’s public art program. “Some of the best stuff occurred because the developer took a personal interest in public art. Concord Pacific has been the best patron so far,” Boddy says of the company responsible for transforming the old Expo 86 lands on the north side of False Creek into a high-density residential urban neighbourhood. “And that’s because Terry Hui [president and majority owner of Concord Pacific] took a personal interest in it.” In fact much of Vancouver’s new public art in the last 20 years does seem to be concentrated in this “city-within-a-city” as the Expo lands were touted; or, more simply, the largest

Galleries West Summer 2012 45

“WE’RE USING SOME OF OUR MOST DESIRABLE PUBLIC SPACES AS A SHOWROOM FOR SCULPTURE”

46 Galleries West Summer 2012

development site in North America. It makes sense there would be a lot of potential for public art and other amenities in this 83-hectare area, where Concord Pacific built more than three dozen new towers housing more than 20,000 people. Pieces like artist Jerry Pethick’s Time Top, near Cambie Bridge, a 1940’sstyle space ship structure installed in 2006 but looking for all the world like it has been submerged underwater for decades. Or Alan Storey’s Password (1994), which is a series of four sets of four letters that rotate to form random words. The letters are animated by three exhaust vents from one building’s underground parkade. Storey is also known for Pendulum (1987) in the HSBC building atrium downtown, another public art installation funded by a private developer. They all form part of Vancouver’s public art collection of over 350 pieces — works that range from early installations of totem poles and bronze statues of notable public figures to light sculptures and complex digital artworks. Many of the projects from the 2009 to 2010 Olympic development period incorporated light and new media elements. Rafael Lozano-Hemmer’s interactive Vectorial Elevation sent 20 beams of light over the English Bay skies for the duration of the 2010 Olympics — the beams could be programmed by participants on the Internet. In reviewing new media artist Tania Ruiz Gutiérrez’s light sculpture Garde-Temps, located under the south end of the Cambie Street Bridge, art critic Robin Laurence said “light is the new bronze”. GardeTemps is a glass and metal structure in the shape of a vase that doubles as a screen for moving images. The images are ever-changing, generated from the site itself by using thermography and a computer program to gather heat emanating from people passing nearby. A thermal camera sends the heat sensory information to the vase sculpture, where it’s transformed into light design on the face of the vase. Laurence found the piece ingenious. But Boddy feels that overall, Vancouver can and must do better. “City hall needs to get other developers up to Concord Pacific’s standards,” says Boddy. “Then we would have a renaissance of public art.” Boddy’s challenge isn’t directed specifically at Karen Henry, and he’s quick to point out that Henry has the background necessary to foster positive change, given her previous years of advocating for public art. Among many projects she worked on in the past 15 years was Ken Lum’s Monument for East Vancouver (2010), a freestanding 57-foot-tall, illuminated sculpture referencing a graffiti symbol prominent in East Vancouver for several decades. “Monument came through a public call to artists to initiate ideas for projects they’d like to see built during the Olympics,” say Henry. “I was the project manager for the city working with the artists who initiated the ideas. I coordinated the selection process, aided in finding the sites, contracted the artists and managed all the technical processes to get the pieces in place.” The site finally chosen for Monument was the third place considered, but one that turned out to be

www.gallerieswest.ca

PHOTO: TREVOR MILLS.

very successful. Thousands of daily riders passing through East Vancouver on the Skytrain have direct views of Monument as it stands near one of the main routes. It’s also on an elevated site, making it visible for miles around. Other public organizations have successfully commissioned public work, including Vancouver Airport’s Art Foundation, public transit’s TransLink and Canada Line, the Vancouver Art Gallery, and the University of British Columbia. And the Vancouver International Sculptural Biennale, begun in 1998 by the now-defunct Buschlen Mowatt Galleries, is now operated as a non-profit organization, after working out a deal with the Vancouver Parks Board to temporarily locate large sculptures created by international artists on park land throughout the city. The Biennale installs works by international artists throughout the city, but at the end of the display period, usually 18 months, the works are for sale. “We’re using some of our most desirable public spaces as a showroom for sculpture,” Boddy says. “Some of the pieces are good, some are less good. The controversy is not so much the Biennale’s fault. They fill a vacuum and now people think it’s the opposite of what it is — that it’s public art.” Karen Henry has her work cut out if she’s to do more with less. The civic art budget has been reduced by more than half, and there are a steadily decreasing number of good sites in the city to place public art. “There’s a limited amount of public space,” Henry says. “We don’t want to fill them all up in a short time. It’s a big responsibility to determine what pieces we want here in perpetuity. When we make decisions today, we have to consider this question: what does it mean for the future?” www.gallerieswest.ca

OPPOSITE LEFT TO RIGHT:

Chilean-Canadian artist

Canada Line installed

Claudio Rivera-Seguel

Amanda Catching’s

created the interactive

photo series The People

photography installation

of the Ivanhoe at Gran-

TransAmericana2012 for

ville and Robson Streets,

the Waterfront Station of

a collection of portraits of

Vancouver’s Canada Line

the “Builders of the City,

transit system.

Champions of Vancouver”.

ABOVE: Jerry Pethick’s

Jaume Plensa’s aluminum

Time Top was fabricated

sculpture We was installed

from silicon bronze and

at Sunset Beach Park in

submerged off the coast of

2008 as part of the Van-

Gibsons, BC, before being

couver Sculpture Biennale.

installed on Vancouver’s

The Spanish artist created

False Creek in 2006.

elements of the figure from alphabet characters from multiple languages.

Galleries West Summer 2012 47

WHAT KEEPS

COWBOY ART COLLECTIBLE?

MORE THAN 100 YEARS AFTER GAINING WIDESPREAD POPULARITY, WESTERN-THEMED PAINTING AND SCULPTURE IS STILL RIDING TALL

BY HEATHER SETKA 48 Galleries West Summer 2012

“Nostalgia plays a role when people collect Western art,” says Robin Schlaht, a Saskatchewan-based filmmaker who’s been a passionate art collector for a decade. “There’s a deliberate exclusion of the modern. It’s not cowboys talking on their cellphones, sitting in their trucks.” He adds that Western art exists on a continuum, with romanticized representation at one end — “cowboys and indians” in their most stereotypical form — and Western landscape, wildlife, possibly works produced by Aboriginal artists at the other end. But Western art by its most stringent definition originated with two men, now still considered masters of the style. American artist Frederic Remington is largely credited with popularizing what we think of today as the classic Western painting style. After he died in 1909, St. Louis-born Charles Russell (1864 - 1926) inherited Remington’s legacy. Lorain Lounsberry is senior cultural curator at the Glenbow Museum in Calgary. She says Russell’s work was well-known in southern Alberta when he was alive. But even during his own time, Russell’s paintings — outlaws running from good guys, a cowboy fending off a bear, or a chief leading his people on the range — already conveyed a life people no longer lived. www.gallerieswest.ca

OPPOSITE: Charles M. Russell, At Rope’s End, 1909. Private collection. LEFt: Kevin Sonmor, 150 Portraits: Museum Painters, oil on linen, 2011, 70" X 80".

This inherent nostalgia made Russell’s work perfect for an art exhibition at the inaugural Calgary Stampede rodeo in 1912. Twenty works, with titles like The Smoke of a 45, Stolen Horses and Call of the Law, showed at the event. There’s even a photo of Russell standing with the contingent of Alberta cattlemen, known as the Big Four, responsible for the Stampede’s inception. Russell’s contemporary Edward Borein, a Californian illustrator, is also there — Stampede organizers put Borein’s etching of a man on a bucking horse on the event’s first poster in 1923. With the Stampede celebrating its centennial this year, it’s 100 years since Russell’s Calgary show as well, so the Glenbow will recreate the exhibition with their summer show, Charlie Russell and the First Calgary Stampede. Lounsberry, working alongside art experts and historians, tracked down 19 originals from the 1912 exhibition — all but one. Four private collectors owned the bulk of these original paintings, and they’ve changed hands several times over the years. Today, Russell’s works fetch a price worthy of the nostalgia. In midMarch this year, the annual art auction to benefit the C.M. Russell museum in Great Falls, Montana sold some of his pieces for more than $400,000. When he was alive, Russell’s patrons were millionaires and businessmen, Lounsberry says. Likely, she adds, these early collectors experienced his paintings of rustic Western life as a metaphor for their own lives (with rugged and macho www.gallerieswest.ca

overtones). “They could see themselves in a world that they had to conquer.” It’s possible this holds true for modern collectors of Western art as well. Calgary artist Paul Van Ginkel says his own collectors can range from “students on payment plans to billionaires”, but they’re primarily business executives and people working in the oil and gas industry. Van Ginkel says his focus on Western art (it’s not his only subject matter) can be traced back to his first Stampede at 13 years old. “I was enthralled with it,” he says. “I wish I could be a cowboy. It’s in my soul.” Although Van Ginkel’s often-fevered brush strokes are much different from Russell’s staunch realism, their subject matter is similar. Van Ginkel paints horses running wild, stagecoaches kicking up dust and cowboys pausing by the fire for a smoke (one of his paintings, Loyal Friends, was used on the 2007 Calgary Stampede poster). Their similarity suggests Western art hasn’t changed much in the 100 years since Russell. Chris Willard, Alberta College of Art and Design’s head of painting, says compared to contemporary art, Western art has only changed “incrementally” over the years. And much like those early collectors of Russell’s work, people collecting Van Ginkel’s art generally see their own desires reflected back at them. He says they feel a connection with the Stampede and the legend of the cowboy, and they want to take it home with them. Often, that emotional connection can build an avid colGalleries West Summer 2012 49

lector. “It morphs into something massive,” Van Ginkel says. It can be lucrative too. Van Ginkel no longer shows in galleries but holds private parties several times a year, where guests view and buy his work. Lounsberry cites another Alberta-based artist, bronze sculptor Rich Roenisch, who sells his work in a price range up to $18,000. If times are changing at all, they’re changing at the annual Calgary Stampede Western Art Showcase and Auction. One of the most popular venues for traditional Western artists (Van Ginkel launched his career at the Showcase), it’s also begun to draw a strong showing from contemporary and abstract artists with tangential ties to Western tradition. Billy Rae Busby is a Saskatchewan-raised artist based in Calgary, whose hard-edged abstract landscapes emphasize colour and shape. It’s not traditional Western art, but her work has been chosen for this year’s Showcase. Busby says she’s honoured to be included, and emphasizes her respect for the skill it takes to recreate reality, but she wonders if collectors of traditional Western painting and sculpture don’t see other forms of art. “That’s not the only thing you can buy in Alberta,” Busby says. “Do they love the work, or do they just feel they’re supporting a Western Canadian artist?”

50 Galleries West Summer 2012

An interesting point, given that outside cities and regions with a strong “cowboy” mentality, Western art doesn’t have strong or consistent patronage. Lounsberry says this is common for a regional art form, pointing to the Ash Can School that depicted early 1900s life in New York, which had strong but limited attraction for collectors. “You could use any comparison,” she says. But a few artists are playing with the tradition, capitalizing on the built-in value and recognition factor in Western themes and legends. Chris Willard cites Richard Prince, who has worked with photos of the Marlboro man to deconstruct the myth (work that set an auction record in 2007 for highest-selling single photograph). Calgary’s Newzones Gallery showcases contemporary takes on Western art during its annual Stampede-themed exhibition, G’ddy Up. This year, New York artist Joe Andoe’s pop imagery appears alongside the still life studies by Kevin Sonmor, a Calgary-born artist — and former bronc rider, no less — now living in Quebec. As a collector (he created a professional group called the Saskatchewan Network for Art Collecting), Schlaht says more traditional forms of Western art are likely better investments in the long run, and in fact the genre may have more staying power than many other forms. “There’s always a risk with art that the style will go completely out of fashion,” he says. “Western style has already proven itself to have staying power.”

LEFT: Joe Andoe, Cherokee

OPPOSITE TOP: Paul Van

Village (pink), serigraph, ed. of

Ginkel, Stagecoach, oil on

10, 2004, 37" X 31".

canvas, 2011, 40" X 60".

BELOW: Billie Rae Busby,

OPPOSITE BELOW: Roland

Nearby, acrylic on canvas, 2009,

Gissing, Horse Study.

48" X 24".

www.gallerieswest.ca

THE RETURN OF ROLAND GISSING For an artist who painted popular scenes of the Canadian west for more than 40 years, for much of that time making a living solely by selling art, it’s incredible that there has never been a solo retrospective show anywhere in Alberta of Roland Gissing’s work since his death in 1967. Allan Boss, director of the Okotoks Art Gallery south of Calgary, and Kori Gregory, who manages the Gissing estate, will put an end to that this summer with a show called Roland Gissing: Trains, Travels, and Western Traditions at OAG from June 15 to July 29. Born in England in 1895, Gissing emigrated to Canada in 1913, taking jobs across the Canadian and American west as a cowhand before he started his painting practice in the mid-1920s. He settled for most of his painting life in a house and studio on the bank of the Ghost River west of Calgary, prolifically painting landscapes, activities, and people of the foothills and Canadian Rockies. He spent the last ten years of his life living and working in Okotoks, which was another draw for the OAG. Canmore, Alberta-based curator and writer Mary-Beth Laviolette has curated the show. The exhibition will include work from the collection of the Glenbow Museum and the Alberta Foundation of the Arts, as well as extensive corporate collections in Southern Alberta. “When Gissing started to paint in the 1920s, he was completely self-taught,” Boss says. “When he was younger, he travelled a fair bit, and in exchange for his stay, he’d do pencil sketches.” The work is wide-ranging, and reflects the artist’s singular focus on subjects popular at the time — often painting the same scene many times over. Boss says the repetition was in part what allowed Gissing to support himself through a lifetime of art-making. — Jill Sawyer www.gallerieswest.ca

Galleries West Summer 2012 51

COLLECTORS 9 ARTISTS to consider right now YVETTE MOORE Born: 1954, Radville, SK Studied: Self-taught Lives/Works: Moose Jaw, SK Price Range: $1000 +

By Richard White

JAMES LEONARD

of the founding artists of German Abstract Expressionism.” Born: 1949, Nashville, TN Leonard has an impressive Studied: BA, Fresno State Uniinternational resume with works versity, 1976 in many public and corporate colLives/Works: Alamo, CA lections including NASA’s Stennis Price Range: $3,000-$9,000 Space Centre and Motorola. Speaking about collectability, Ms. Geisheimer, was involved years Located in Vancouver’s trendy ago in the selection of a large Vern Yaletown, art dealer Deanna Red Tiger Overhead, acrylic on Simpson painting for an insurance Geisheimer opened Art Works canvas, 60" x 60" company. With dark mahogany Gallery in 1986. Geisheimer furniture, green carpets and chairs, has noticed that while the typical she chose an artwork with an explosion of colour that West Coast collector, nurtured on the area’s lush looked amazing. A decade later the company moved natural beauty, has been dedicated to landscapes for and changed their interior design to blond wood many years, they are gradually moving towards an furniture and black granite floors. The president was appreciation for abstract expressionistic art as a result surprised by the number of people who commented of ongoing exposure and education. on the “new” painting in the boardroom and how “James Leonard is one of our most collectable wonderful it looked. It was the same Simpson paintartists,” says Geisheimer, “because of his specialized ing but it had been reframed and placed into a new technique of layering paints and using utensils he fashenvironment. Geisheimer advocates “buy what you ions himself instead of the standard paint brushes. He like, buy wisely and the art will stand the test of time.” has been compared favourably to Gerhard Richter, one

2 Snowbirds 431 Air Demonstration Squadron, 1992, acrylic on canvas, 24" x 30"

Yvette Moore opened her namesake gallery and studio in 1999, in the now 100-year-old Land Titles building in historic downtown Moose Jaw. It created an opportunity to also exhibit the work of others. For example the gallery currently represents a wide range of artists and artisans showing pottery, jewellery and stained glass in addition to Yvette’s paintings. Chantelle Moore-Flanagan, the gallery’s Sales and Marketing Manager notes, “There continues to be a strong demand for nostalgic art that reflects life on the prairies, as well as the sense of place in the prairies - the wide open space and the big blue skies. Some collectors are looking for something with a personal story they can pass on to family in the future.” Yvette’s work dominates the gallery and Chantelle openly recommends it as highly collectible. But she goes on to explain that this emotional link to the land extends beyond the prairie region to visitors from the USA and abroad who have purchased Yvette’s work. Snowbirds 431 Air Demonstration Squadron exemplifies Moore’s narrative painting style and subject as she captures several quintessential prairie icons – the flat patchwork quilt farmland, the isolated homestead, the big sky, as wells as CFB Moose Jaw’s own aerobatic Snowbirds team. Moore was commissioned to create the official portrait of the former Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan and has received numerous awards throughout her career including the prestigious Mr. Christies Book Award for outstanding achievement for illustration in Canadian Children’s Literature, for A Prairie Alphabet.

52 Galleries West Summer 2012

DOUGLAS FISHER Born: 1965, Thunder Bay, ON Studied: Self-taught Lives/Works: Parksville, BC Price Range: $600 to $4,000

Larry and Gillian Hanlon opened Peninsula Gallery in Sidney, BC, in 1986. Today they exhibit art in a wide range of media and genres. They are currently seeing interest in colourful paintings, as well as bronze sculptures, both largescale outdoor art, and smaller pieces for inside, as well as innovative wood sculpture. Douglas Fisher’s beautiful West Coast-themed wood Moments of reflection, 2012, Broad sculptures are one of their recommendations for new collectors. Leaf Maple, 23.5" x 1.5" Fisher’s work stands out for its impeccable design, carving, dyeing and workmanship. His work has been featured on the front cover of major publications like American Woodworker, and included in many international exhibitions, notably From Tree to Treasure: An International Invitational Exhibition of Turned or Sculpted Wood at the Franklin G. Burroughs /Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina this year. The majority of his pieces are wall sculptures, but his free-standing sculptures, vessels and bowls are also very collectable. The Hanlons urge new collectors to keep their minds open. They tell the story of being invited to a housewarming party by a couple who had previously bought some small pieces from them. They immediately sensed the home was the ideal setting for a major Tim Cherry sculpture they were expecting. When it arrived in the gallery they invited the client to come have a look. He came and he loved it. It was the first sculpture he had ever bought. Since then he has collected several sculptures by different artists. In fact, sculpture has become his passion. www.gallerieswest.ca

COLLECTORS BIGOUDI aka Pascale Ouellet Born: 1976, Maniwaki, QC Studied: Inter-Dec College and University of Quebec, Montreal, QC Lives/Works: Canmore, AB Price Range: $1,200 to $6,000

themes of animals or the human figure, are dramatic, fun and serious at the same time. A winner of several awards, Bigoudi was selected as one of Alberta’s top 20 artists in a competition held by the Heritage CorpoGibson Fine Art was launched in ration in 2009 and, in adthe late 1970s by Norma Gibson as dition to her paintings, she a corporate art consulting practice. won a major commission in In 2004, Patti Dibski purchased the 2005 for Chinook, a large business and in 2007 she merged Neigh Neigh, encaustic on outdoor sculpture piece for with Fosbrooke Fine Art and transdigital print, 40" x 60" the town of Canmore. formed Gibson Fine Art into a retail For new collectors Dibski believes in the power gallery. of the internet. “Every gallery has a website. Visit Over the past five years Dibski has seen a them frequently,” she suggests, “the more you decline in demand for highly representational see, the more you will understand what you like. art, and a corresponding increase in demand for Armed with this information, I highly recomcontemporary interpretations of the landscape, mend you actually examine the art since it’s nearly still life and cityscapes. impossible to understand the artwork’s colour The artist Bigoudi (professional name of Pascale balance, and contrast by viewing it on screen or Ouellet) is one Dibski often recommends to colwith a printer.” lectors. Her large format encaustic paintings with

CHARLES CARSON Born: 1957, Montreal, QC Studied: Self-taught Lives/Works: Prévost, QC Price Range: $1,500 to $24,500 (mosaics)

Michel Arseneau relocated from Montreal to Calgary almost three years ago to open a gallery. After much research he opened Inglewood Fine Arts in 2010. He immediately observed significant differences in the attitude of Calgary collectors. Firstly, they appeared to be less spontaneous than Montrealers and secondly, the psychological point at which art becomes too expensive seems to be lower. He has also perceived that new collectors lean less towards figurative art La valse d’automne, mosaic, and more towards bold colors. 40" x 30" Charles Carson is Arseneau’s pick for collectors. Carson is venerated in Colombia where he spent his early years as a painter and in France where his paintings are highly sought after. Since returning to Québec in the late ‘90s his work has drawn comparisons to another world famous Quebec artist, Jean-Paul Riopelle. For collectors, it is important to note that prices for Carson paintings have increased steadily for several years. Carson’s work is in numerous public and corporate collections including Laurentian Bank and Caisse de depot du Québec. Discussions are presently underway for a public exhibition of his work that would premier at the Bordeaux Museum in France and then travel to Monaco, Switzerland, Germany and Russia. Arseneau’s advice to collectors is to attend local auctions even if you don’t intend to bid. Try to observe trends. Ask yourself: why do certain artists’ works come up for auction more often than others? Why do other artists’ works never come up for auction despite a prolific output?

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DAVID T. ALEXANDER Born: 1947, Vancouver, BC Studied: Kootenay School of Art, Nelson; MFA from the University of Saskatchewan Lives/Works: Kelowna, BC Price Range: $1,000 - $20,000

Crested Hills, 2012, acrylic on canvas,

52" x 58"

Peter Robertson opened his namesake gallery in 2004, relocating to Edmonton’s gallery walk district in 2007. He has noticed an increased interest in larger, more contemporary pieces as collectors become more adventurous and savvy. “Our clients often experiment with mixing different styles and media into their collections. They might have everything from landscape to geometric abstraction hanging together to create visual interest.” Robertson recommends looking for an artist with a proven track record. For example, receiving curatorial interest from public museums and collections can be an indication of quality and a justification of price. He often proposes David Alexander from his stable of artists for this very reason. Alexander has a 25-year exhibition record, and is featured in national and international public and private collections. He currently has a major travelling retrospective exhibition which opened this spring at the Kelowna Art Gallery and is accompanied by a multi-authored, full-colour book. His landscapes resonate with a wide audience due to the accessible subject matter, and a complexity that will hold one’s interest for a lifetime. Robertson’s tip for collectors is, “Spend a lot of time looking, Your ‘eye’ will evolve. Stay open to new ideas and types of work. Buy artwork that interests and attracts you. Don’t worry as much about exactly how a piece will fit into your décor or current collection – the space will develop to accept a piece you love.” Galleries West Summer 2012 53

COLLECTORS JUDITH PANSON

STEVEN GORING

Born: 1938, Plymouth, UK Studied: Plymouth and London Universities Lives/Works: Lockport, MB Price Range: $100 to $3,000

Born: Kingston, ON Studied: Fanshawe College, London, ON Lives/Works: Victoria, BC Price Range: $3,000 - $7,000

All That Jazz (detail), 2010, 24" x 30.5", fibre art

In 1995, Wayne Arthur and his wife Bev Morton opened the Wayne Arthur Sculpture & Craft Gallery in their home in St. Andrews, MB near Oak Hammock Marsh. After Wayne passed away, Morton moved the gallery to Winnipeg and together with her new husband, Robert MacLellan, she has run the Wayne Arthur Gallery showing the works of Wayne and other artists since 2002. Morton finds her clients are still keenly interested in collecting but in many cases they area looking at smaller, more intimate pieces. She encounters more people struggling with making decisions about what to collect. Her response is, “Go with your initial reaction. Don’t second-guess yourself.” Morton often recommends Judith Panson to clients as her work is accessible on several different levels. Parson spent many years primarily as a water media painter and printmaker, but in the last few years has been exploring quilted wall hangings. The hangings integrate diverse elements from the natural world, spiritual beliefs, memories and dreams. Parson is well established in the visual arts community as a member of Fibre Arts Network, a group of fibre artists in western Manitoba. She has exhibited across Western Canada, Ontario, and in the USA, Mexico and New Zealand. Her work hangs in corporate and private collections in Australia, Canada, England, Mexico, Switzerland and the USA.

54 Galleries West Summer 2012

Jennifer Kostuik Gallery opened in 1997 and is located in Vancouver’s Yaletown district. The gallery’s stable of approximately 20 artists ranges from realist to abstraction genres. Kostuik has observed over the past No. 5, 2011, acrylic on paper mounted on few years a change from collecting black and white phowood, 28" x 36.25" tography to color. For example, she points out, “David Burdeny’s black and white Shoreline series was extremely popular ten years ago but today it’s his colour series Drift that is getting more attention.” However Steven Goring is Kostuik’s choice for someone starting a collection today. He has been exhibiting at her gallery in solo and group exhibitions for almost 10 years. She first discovered his work at the Sooke Fine Arts Fair in 2003. And since then his work has been well received by collectors at art fairs in San Francisco, Toronto and New York. Kostuik says, “Goring is a good example of a contemporary abstractionist who derives his influence by abstracting from nature i.e. from the light and color of the west coast, especially the unique qualities of light moving through arbutus trees.” She advises new collectors to research the background of artists and be wary if the value seems too high compared to other artists with similar credentials. She also cautions about collecting artists who have only exhibited locally, as often their prices can be inflated when compared to the larger market. In this regard, she is very comfortable recommending Goring, a mid-career artist with a good track record across North America.

LINDA WILDER

Linda Wilder, one of the most intuitive and aggressive painters Wacko has discovered in a long time. “Her work has the ability to strike an emotional cord that humbles you,” exclaims Wacko. “Collectors find the passion of Wilder’s paintings captivating.” Wendy Wacko opened her first For example, her painting SunMountain Galleries in Fairwapta Falls won the ‘Collectors mont’s Jasper Park Lodge in Choice’ award at the 2010 1992, and since has added galCalgary Stampede Art Auction. leries in Fairmont Banff Springs “One of the challenges Hotel and Fairmont Chateau for first-time collectors,” Whistler. Accordingly, she see a A Splash With Red, Acrylic on Canvas says Wacko “is they haven’t lot of international collectors 16" x 12" considered budgeting for but what she has noticed artwork like they do for cars, recently is “more, young, vacations, etc.” Original work is quite affordable well-educated collectors visiting the galleries who and even setting aside $100/month will soon pay are interested in the process of art-making and less for a nice $1,200 painting, and in ten years they can concerned about its ‘investment’ value. They seem have a substantial collection. For Wacko, collecting more willing to take chances and step outside their art is a wonderful life-long adventure to be shared comfort zone.” with others, especially children for whom it provides A good example of an artist who is attracting what she calls ‘emotional intelligence.’ the interest of the young adventurous collector is Born: 1955, St. Jerome, QC Studied: U of C / Red Deer College Art&Design Lives/Works: Calgary, AB Price Range: $900 to $7,000

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Galleries West Summer 2012 55

COLLECTORS GALLERIES Fine art galleries in Western Canada

For our comprehensive guide go to www.galleriescanada.ca

BRITISH COLUMBIA GALLERIES DUNCAN, BC Commercial Gallery E.J. HUGHES GALLERY 28 Station St, Duncan, BC V9L 1M4 T. 250-746-7112 pacific@islandnet.com www.ejhughes.ca The art of E. J. Hughes is now available at his hometown gallery on Vancouver Island. Hughes is a master. His use of color, moody coastal skies and timeless places keeps connoisseurs coming back for more. Shop the Hughes Gallery online or, in person Mon to Fri 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 10 am - 4 pm. Sun by appt. INVERMERE - WINDERMERE Commercial Galleries EFFUSION ART GALLERY 1033 7 Ave, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 T. 250-341-6877 info@effusionartgallery.com www.effusionartgallery.com Describing itself as ‘an unrestrained expression of emotion’, the gallery is created on the energy of contemporary art with a collaboration between established and emerging artisans from coast to coast. Friendly staff happily provide advice on installation and design specifics to clients, whether homeowners, interior designers or from the corporate world. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sun noon - 4 pm. THE ARTYM GALLERY 934 7 Ave, Box 235, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0 T. 250-342-7566 F. 250-342-7565 info@artymgallery.com www.artymgallery.com Established in 2002, the Artym represents over 65 contemporary Canadian artists including sculptors, jewellers and painters. The gallery presents solo, group and themed exhibitions throughout the year. The welcoming staff can help find the right piece for both established collectors and first-time buyers. International shipping. Personal delivery to Calgary. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sun noon - 4 pm KAMLOOPS Commercial Gallery HAMPTON GALLERY KAMLOOPS 167 4 Ave, Kamloops, BC V2C 3N3 T. 250-374-2400 F. 250-374-2400 hamptongallery@telus.net www.hamptongalleries.com BRITISH COLUMBIA INDEX Duncan .................................................................. 56 Invermere............................................................... 56 Kamloops............................................................... 56 Kelowna................................................................. 57 Penticton ............................................................... 57 Qualicum Bay/Beach ............................................... 57 Salt Spring Island ................................................... 57 Sidney .................................................................... 58 Silver Star Mountain ............................................... 58 Sooke .................................................................... 58 Vancouver .............................................................. 58 Vernon................................................................... 60 Victoria .................................................................. 60 Whistler ................................................................. 61

56 Galleries West Summer 2012

Carol Haigh, Ian Tan Gallery, Vancouver

Carol Haigh grew up on Salt Spring Island and has been sailing since she was a girl, so her love of the ocean and sky has found its way into her acrylic paintings. “My images may come from what I see walking,” Haigh says. “I look for a particular moment, when I’m trying to find the perfect image to paint. It could be the break as the waves are coming to the shore. I take photographs and use them as a starting point. The photos are a handy tool for detail and color, and I work out the composition from that.” Haigh has been painting for 24 years, and each of her photo-realistic works takes six weeks to two months to complete. While the BC coastline is a never-ending source of inspiration, Haigh is well-travelled. “The colors of the ocean are different, but the feeling is the same,” she says. “The ocean and sky are constantly changing.” And after years of observing and painting, she says capturing the natural world is an endless challenge. “I’m still learning how to paint them. I'm trying to get the feel of water, so you feel you're there.” — Janet Nicol ABOVE: Carol Haigh, Foaming Sea, acrylic on canvas, 2012, 48" X 60". ALBERTA INDEX Banff...................................................................... 62 Black Diamond ....................................................... 62 Bragg Creek ........................................................... 62 Calgary .................................................................. 62 Camrose ................................................................ 65 Canmore ................................................................ 65 Cochrane ............................................................... 65 Drumheller ............................................................. 66 Edmonton.............................................................. 66 Grande Prairie ........................................................ 67 High River ............................................................. 67 Jasper .................................................................... 67 Lacombe ................................................................ 67 Lethbridge ............................................................. 67

Medicine Hat ......................................................... 68 Okotoks ................................................................. 68 Ponoka .................................................................. 68 Red Deer ................................................................ 68 Waterton ............................................................... 68 SASKATCHEWAN INDEX Assiniboia .............................................................. 68 Estevan .................................................................. 68 Melfort .................................................................. 68 Moose Jaw............................................................. 69 Prince Albert .......................................................... 69 Regina ................................................................... 69 Rockglen ................................................................ 69 Saskatoon .............................................................. 69

Swift Current.......................................................... 70 Val Marie ............................................................... 70 MANITOBA INDEX Brandon................................................................. 70 Gimli...................................................................... 70 Portage La Prairie ................................................... 70 Selkirk .................................................................... 70 Winnipeg ............................................................... 70 Winnipeg Beach ..................................................... 71 NORTHERN TERRITORIES INDEX Whitehorse ............................................................ 71

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Public Gallery KAMLOOPS ART GALLERY 101-465 Victoria St, Kamloops, BC V2C 2A9 T. 250-377-2400 F. 250-828-0662 kamloopsartgallery@kag.bc.ca www.kag.bc.ca KELOWNA Commercial Galleries HAMBLETON GALLERIES 1290 Ellis St, Kelowna, BC V1Y 1Z4 T. 250-860-2498 info@hambletongalleries.com www.hambletongalleries.com/ Established in 1964, the Hambleton has provided a showcase for leading Canadian artists whose works grace many national and international private and corporate collections. At their new location, owners Stewart and Tracy Turcotte offer investment art opportunities to their clientele and have added ceramics, and bronze sculpture to complement the paintings. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm. SOPA FINE ARTS 2934 South Pandosy St, Kelowna, BC V1Y 1V9 T. 250-763-5088 info@sopafinearts.com www.sopafinearts.com Okanagan’s major contemporary art gallery, Sopa Fine Arts prides itself on providing an ever-changing selection of contemporary art from leading international artists, with new exhibitions opening the first Thursday each month. Sopa features high calibre, original and innovative artworks; in the media of painting, sculpture, and assemblage. Tues to Sat 11 am - 5 pm, Sun noon - 4 pm or by appointment. THE BARN GALLERY 4450 Towgood Rd, Oyama, BC V4V 2B6 T. 250-548-3823 F. 250-548-0004 barngallery@shaw.ca www.barngallery.ca To an emerging artist a good gallery is the door to realization, evolution and the community. To an art lover, it is the beginning of a beautiful relationship. Jody LaFontaine, owner of the Barn Gallery, nurtures both artist and collector in a relaxed country setting featuring Okanagan original art. Open Victoria Day (May) to Thanksgiving (October), Fri to Sun 10 am - 5 pm or by appt. TURTLE ISLAND GALLERY 115-1295 Cannery Lane, Kelowna, BC V1Y 9V8 T. 250-717-8235 info@turtleislandgallery.com www.turtleislandgallery.com The gallery has a stunning selection of Northwest Coast wood carvings including ceremonial masks, totem poles, talking sticks, plaques and bentwoodstyle boxes. Also stone carvings, hand-carved gold and silver jewellery, original paintings and limited edition prints both contemporary and traditional. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm (Summer only: also Sun 11 am - 4 pm). @galleries_west

Karen Brown has recently sold the Hampton Gallery Kamloops to Diane and Peter Stuhlmann. COLLECTOR’S CHOICE ART GALLERY TUTT STREET GALLERY 9-3045 Tutt St, Kelowna, BC V1Y 2H4 T. 250-861-4992 F. 250-861-4992 info@tuttartgalleries.com www.tuttartgalleries.com Established in 1984, Tutt Street Gallery is a recognized dealer of original fine art — representing regional, national and international artists whose works can be found in private, corporate, and government collections, in Canada and abroad. The gallery extends a warm welcome to art enthusiasts and experienced collectors. Tues to Fri 10 am - 5 pm, Sat 10 am - 4 pm or by appt. Public Gallery KELOWNA ART GALLERY 1315 Water St, Kelowna, BC V1Y 9R3 T. 250-762-2226 F. 250-762-9875 info@kelownaartgallery.com www.kelownaartgallery.com Located in the heart of Kelowna’s Cultural District, the gallery serves the Central Okanagan Valley with regular exhibitions by contemporary Canadian artists, while the permanent collection has a focus on Okanagan and other BC-based artists. The gallery is a unique venue for special events and offers a variety of classes, workshops, etc for people of all

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ages. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Thur till 9 pm, Sun 1 pm - 4 pm. PENTICTON Commercial Galleries SAINT-GERMAIN CAFE-GALLERY 102-449 Main St, Penticton, BC V2A 1V6 T. 250-492-0060 info@saintgermaincafegallery.com www.saintgermaincafegallery.com Saint-Germain is a euro-style cafe within a bright, light-filled gallery. The art focus is on contemporary BC artists, both representational and abstract. The cafe offers organic coffee, pastries, baguette sandwiches, salads and soups. Browsing with an espresso in hand encourages lively conversation about the art. Two blocks south of Front St. Mon to Fri 8 am - 5 pm, Sat 10 am - 3 pm.

WENDY SKOG a visual PARADE

THE LLOYD GALLERY 18 Front St, Penticton, BC V2A 1H1 T. 250-492-4484 art@lloydgallery.com www.lloydgallery.com New location on colourful Front St. Experience the beauty of the Okanagan through artist’s eyes. Browse through a large viewing gallery hung French salon-style. Original oil, acrylic, watercolour, pastel, mixed media and sculptures depict the many faces of the Okanagan, Canada and Asia. Mon to Sat (Summer) Tues to Sat (Winter) 9:30 am - 5:30 pm. Public Gallery PENTICTON ART GALLERY 199 Marina Way, Penticton, BC V2A 1H3 T. 250-493-2928 F. 250-493-3992 agso@shawbiz.ca www.galleries.bc.ca/agso The Penticton Art Gallery (formerly AGSO) presents contemporary art and historical exhibitions of both established and emerging artists in four exhibition spaces. A place of inquiry, interest and enjoyment, the gallery proudly promotes Okanagan as well as provincial and national artists. Admission: Adults $2, students and children free, weekends free. Tues to Fri 10 am - 5 pm, Sat and Sun noon - 5 pm. QUALICUM BEACH

Vanishing Point, acrylic, 57”x 35”

Opening Saturday, April 28, 7 - 9 pm Continuing to May 24, 2012

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Public Gallery THE OLD SCHOOLHOUSE ARTS CENTRE 122 Fern Road West, Qualicum Beach, BC V9K 1T2 T. 250-752-6133 gbtosh@shaw.ca www.theoldschoolhouse.org The arts centre provides rewarding opportunities to enjoy, learn and experience art with three galleries offering a pleasant venue for appreciating and purchasing distinctive works. Artist studios are open to visitors. Creations by artisans are available in the gift shop. Gallery concerts on Sundays. Mon noon - 4:30 pm; Tues - Sat 10 am - 4:30 pm; (Summer only: Sun noon - 4 pm). SALT SPRING ISLAND Commercial Galleries GALLERY 8 3104-115 Fulford Ganges Rd, Grace Point Square, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 2T9 T. 250-537-8822 Toll Free: 1-866-537-8822 art@gallery8saltspring.com www.gallery8saltspring.com Gallery 8 represents many of the finest Gulf Island artists, both established and emerging. Their collection of contemporary art covers a broad range of media, showcasing the dynamic and innovative work of these accomplished artists who strive to offer the highest quality work while continuing to expand their boundaries into new arenas. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun & Hol Mon 11 am - 4 pm. MORLEY MYERS STUDIO & GALLERY 7-315 Upper Ganges Rd, Salt Spring Island, BC T. 250-537-4898 F. 250-537-4828 mgallery@telus.net www.morleymyersgallery.com The gallery shows the progression of earlier works of stone to Morley Myers’ latest bronze creation. In the lower level studio you can see and visit with the artist at work on his next piece. His work is influenced by cross-cultural indigenous art forms. Sat and Sun 11 am - 5 pm or by appt. PEGASUS GALLERY OF CANADIAN ART Mouat’s Mall, 1-104 Fulford-Ganges Rd, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 2S3 T. 250-537-2421 F. 250-537-5590 pegasus@saltspring.com www.pegasusgallery.ca Established in 1972, Pegasus offers investmentquality historical Canadian art including The Group

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Morley Myers, BLINK OF AN EYE, Bronze 72” tall

Salt Spring Island

STEFFICH FINE ART

steffichfineart.com

Victoria

MADRONA GALLERY

madronagallery.com

Vancouver

GRANVILLE FINE ART

granvillefineart.com

Canmore

ELEVATION GALLERY

elevationgallery.ca

Galleries West Summer 2012 57

The gallery represents 18 artists, many with international roots. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5.30 pm, Sun noon to 4 pm. DOUGLAS UDELL GALLERY 1566 W 6 Ave, 2nd floor, Vancouver, BC V6J 1R2 T. 604-736-8900 F. 604-736-8931 Vancouver@douglasudellgallery.com www.douglasudellgallery.com In the art business in Edmonton since 1967 and Vancouver since 1986, Douglas Udell Gallery represents many of Canada’s leading contemporary artists as well as some of the leading young artists gaining momentum in the international playing field. The gallery also buys and sells in the secondary market in Canadian historical as well as international. Tues to Sat 10 am - 6 pm, Mon by appt. ELLIOTT LOUIS GALLERY 258 E 1st Ave, Vancouver, BC V5T 1A6 T. 604-736-3282 F. 604-736-3282 gallery@elliottlouis.com www.elliottlouis.com The gallery features Canadian fine art representing contemporary artists and historical masters. Art dealer Ted Lederer prides himself on the standard and diversity of work the gallery carries, their innovative programs and excellent service, providing ”in-house” art consultations and an art rental program available to private and corporate clients and the entertainment industry. Tues to Sat 10 am - 6 pm or by appointment.

Lyndl Hall: On Fixing Position, June 1 to 24, Burnaby Art Gallery

What does the simple act of drawing a line mean? This is the question Vancouver artist Lyndl Hall explores in her new series. “I wanted to look at drawing and lines and how they order the world we live in,” she says. Connecting navigational lines with the history of mapping, Hall illustrates how the action of drawing is a method of “controlling spaces”, reflected in the colonization of a place. In On Fixing Position, two intersecting low-lying walls represent lines of longitude and latitude. Hall says the intent is to carve up the architectural space of the gallery to create new areas, boundaries and experiences for viewers to move through — including outdoor gallery space. She says viewers experience “how lines control a body by creating boundaries that directly shape us.” Three small sculptures — a sextant, compass and sundial — are represented in a stylized and minimalist form, and suggest a connection to navigational lines. And she includes a looping video of a garden scene in colonial South Africa. “I’m interested in how the cultivation of the garden is akin to the ordering and categorization of navigational grids,” she says. — Janet Nicol ABOVE: Lyndl Hall, Navigation 2: Sundial, pencil on paper, 2011, 22" X 30". of Seven, Robert Pilot, WJ Phillips, Sybil Andrews, The Beaver Hall Group and Cornelius Krieghoff. They also represent fine contemporary painters and sculptors as well as rare Northwest Coast Native art and baskets. Summer: Mon to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun noon - 5 pm; Winter: Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun, Mon by appt. STEFFICH FINE ART GALLERY 3105-115 Fulford-Ganges Rd, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 2S3 T. 250-537-8448 F. 250-537-9233 Toll Free: 1-877-537-8448 info@steffichfineart.com www.steffichfineart.com Formerly the Thunderbird Gallery, established in 1992. Contemporary, historic, Inuit and Northwest Coast art. Local and national artists. Kids and dogs welcome. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun 11 am - 4 pm. THE PORCH GALLERY 290 Fulford-Ganges Rd, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 2K6 T. 250-537-4155 info@mothertonguepublishing.com www.mothertonguepublishing.com The new salon-style Porch Gallery features original paintings, drawings and limited edition prints from BC artists: Jack Akroyd, George Fertig, Irene Hoffar Reid, Gordon Caruso, Ina D. Uhthoff, Peter Haase and Wim Blom and Mother Tongue Publishing books and limited edition letterpressed broadsides. Sun noon - 4 pm or by appointment. SIDNEY Commercial Gallery PENINSULA GALLERY 100-2506 Beacon Ave, Landmark Bldg., Sidney, BC V8L 1Y2 T. 250-655-1282 Toll Free: 1-877-787-1896 pengal@pengal.com www.pengal.com Since 1986 the gallery has offered original paint-

58 Galleries West Summer 2012

ings and sculptures as well as a wide range of limited edition prints for sale onsite and through comprehensive website. Mon to Sat 9 am - 5:30 pm. SILVER STAR MOUNTAIN Commercial Gallery GALLERY ODIN 215 Odin Road, PO Box 3109, Silver Star Mountain, BC V1B 3M1 T. 250-503-0822 F. 250-503-0822 info@galleryodin.com www.galleryodin.com The gallery proudly represents a talented group of Okanagan, British Columbian and Canadian artists, some of them well-established and highly accomplished, others just emerging, but all of them work in a distinctive and original style — oils, acrylics, watercolours, scrimshaw, sculpture, pottery. (Summer) Thur and Sat 2 pm - 6 pm; (Winter) Wed and Sat 1 pm - 6 pm or by appt. SOOKE Commercial Gallery SOOKE HARBOUR HOUSE GALLERY 1528 Whiffen Spit Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0T4 T. 250-642-3421 F. 250-642-6988 gallery@sookeharbourhouse.com www.sookeharbourhouse.com/ Displayed throughout this award-winning inn, with its internationally-renowned dining room, the unconventional gallery was created in 1998 with carefully selected works by local artists on Vancouver Island. The art, in a variety of media, generally reflects themes of edible gardens, the ocean and the surrounding forest. Daily guided Garden Tours with art display in the Edible Gardens. Gallery open daily for self-guided tour. GREATER VANCOUVER Commercial Galleries ART EMPORIUM 2928 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3J7 T. 604-738-3510 F. 604-733-5427

tvk@theartemporium.ca www.theartemporium.ca The Art Emporium offers a large inventory of paintings by all members of the Group of Seven and several of their contemporaries, as well as other major Canadian, French and American artists of the 20th Century, for serious collectors and investors. The Estate of Donald Flather. Mon to Sat 10 am - 6 pm. ART WORKS GALLERY 225 Smithe St, Vancouver, BC V6B 4X7 T. 604-688-3301 F. 604-683-4552 Toll Free: 1-800-663-0341 info@artworksbc.com www.artworksbc.com Celebrating 25 years in business, Art Works offers one of the largest selections of art and framing solutions in Western Canada. Providing installation services, custom-framed mirrors and large-scale commissions. Deliver locally and ship worldwide. Art Works is a long-time official sponsor of the Interior Designers Institute of BC. Mon to Fri 9 am - 6 pm, Sat 10 am - 6 pm, Sun noon - 5 pm. BELLEVUE GALLERY 2475 Bellevue Ave, West Vancouver, BC V7V 1E1 T. 604-922-2304 F. 604-922-2305 info@bellevuegallery.ca www.bellevuegallery.ca Devoted to representing contemporary fine art, Bellevue Gallery features artists of local and international appeal. Giving voice to the experimentation of new technologies in printmaking, divergent and individual approaches to drawing, photography and painting, and distinctive sculpture, the gallery serves both private and corporate collectors. Tues to Fri 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 11 am - 5 pm and by appointment. BUCKLAND SOUTHERST GALLERY 2460 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC V7C 1L1 T. 604-922-1915 cboulton@telus.net www.bucklandsoutherst.com An eclectic gallery owned by Chris Boulton. His aim is to hang quality art without too high a price tag.

FEDERATION GALLERY 1241 Cartwright St, Vancouver, BC V6H 4B7 T. 604-681-8534 fcagallery@artists.ca www.artists.ca The Federation of Canadian Artists Gallery on Granville Island offers sale, exhibition and gallery rental opportunities to members. New exhibitions are usually scheduled every two weeks throughout the year. Tues to Sun 10 am - 5 pm (mid-May - Aug), 10 am - 4 pm (Sep - mid May). FRAGRANT-WOOD CARVING ART GALLERY 2233 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 4H7 T. 604-558-2889 F. 604-558-2890 info@fragrantwood.com www.fragrantwood.com The Fragrant Wood Carving Art Gallery, located on popular South Granville street, was established in 2011. It focuses on wooden sculptures, oil paintings, batik paintings and other artworks created by well-known artists in Southeast Asia. The delicate works reflect the artists’ unique experiences and interpretations. Daily 10 am - 6 pm. GALLERY JONES 1725 West 3rd Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1K7 T. 604-714-2216 info@galleryjones.com www.galleryjones.com The gallery represents established and emerging Canadian and international artists in the mediums of painting, sculpture and photography. Exhibitions change monthly. Second location in West Vancouver at 1531 Marine Dr. Tues - Fri 11 am - 6 pm, Sat noon - 5 pm. @galleries_west

Elissa Cristall has moved her eponymous gallery a few doors north, to 2239 on Granville St in Vancouver. GRANVILLE FINE ART 2447 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3G5 T. 604-266-6010 info@granvillefineart.com www.granvillefineart.com Canadian artworld veterans Linda Lando and Ken Macdonald have reputations of building collections for collectors. They have merged their talents into Granville Fine Art, representing fine contemporary artists and showcasing works by Canadian and international master painters. Northwest corner Broadway and Granville. Tues to Sat 10 am - 6 pm. IAN TAN GALLERY 2202 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 4H7 T. 604-738-1077 F. 604-738-1078 info@iantangallery.com www.iantangallery.com JENKINS SHOWLER GALLERY 101-15735 Croydon Dr, The Shops at Morgan

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JENNIFER KOSTUIK GALLERY 1070 Homer St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2W9 T. 604-737-3969 F. 604-737-3964 info@kostuikgallery.com www.kostuikgallery.com LATTIMER GALLERY 1590 W 2nd Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1H2 T. 604-732-4556 F. 604-732-0873 info@lattimergallery.com www.lattimergallery.com Since 1986, clients have enjoyed the unique, warm atmosphere of a Northwest Longhouse while browsing the large selection of original paintings and limited edition prints by many well-known native artists — as well as finely-crafted gold and silver jewellery, argillite carvings, soapstone sculptures, steam bent boxes, masks, totem poles and more. Mon to Sat 10 am - 6 pm, Sun & Hol noon - 5 pm. @galleries_west

Peter Ohler Jr has returned to Vancouver to open a second location of the Calgary-based Masters Gallery, on South Granville. MARION SCOTT GALLERY 2423 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3G5 T. 604-685-1934 F. 604-685-1890 art@marionscottgallery.com www.marionscottgallery.com Vancouver’s oldest Inuit art gallery (opened in 1975) and one of Canada’s most respected has returned to South Granville. The gallery is committed to presenting the finest in Canadian Inuit art, with a wide range of Inuit sculpture, prints and wallhangings from many different regions of Canada’s North, with special emphasis on rare pieces from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s. Mon to Sat 10 am - 6 pm, Sun 11 am - 5 pm. MASTERS GALLERY VANCOUVER 2245 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3G1 T. 604-558-4244 peterohler@shawcable.com www.vancouver-mastersgalleryltd.com Celebrating 35 years as dealers of top quality Canadian historical and contemporary art from its base in Calgary, Masters Gallery recently opened this second location on trendy South Granville with returning Vancouverite, Peter Ohler Jr as Director. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm. MONNY’S GALLERY 2675 W 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC V6K 1P8 T. 604-733-2082 monny@shaw.ca www.geocities.com/monnysenvisiongallery/ index.html This gallery of longtime collector Monny, has a permanent collection as well as a rotating schedule of exhibitions by local artists Kerensa Haynes, Ted Hesketh, Sonja Kobrehel, Shu Okamoto, Ruth Lowe and others working in a variety of media. Mon to Sat 10 am - 6 pm. PACIFIC HOME AND ART CENTRE 1560 W 6 Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1R2 T. 604-566-9889 info@pacifichome.ca www.pacifichome.ca The Centre offers a variety of imported, handmade, Murano-style glass art pieces — chandeliers, wall installations, one-of-a-kind decorative pieces and more. Their collection comes with a variety of colourful, elaborated shapes and sizes, styles and designs to complement most personal styles and budgets. Mon & Fri 9:30 am - 6 pm, Tue to Thurs 9 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 9 am - 5 pm. PETLEY JONES GALLERY 1554 W 6 Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1R2 T. 604-732-5353 F. 604-732-5669 info@petleyjones.com

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www.petleyjones.com Established in 1986 by Matt Petley-Jones, nephew of the late Canadian and British artist Llewellyn Petley-Jones, the gallery specializes in 19th - 20th century Canadian, European and American paintings, sculpture and original prints. It also offers a range of fine art services, including framing, restoration and appraisals. Around the corner from former Granville location. Mon to Sat 10 am - 6 pm. RENDEZVOUS ART GALLERY 323 Howe St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 3N2 T. 604-687-7466 F. 604-687-7466 Toll Free: 1-877-787-7466 info@rendezvousartgallery.com www.rendezvousartgallery.com Located on the bright southwest corner of Howe and Cordova, this vibrant gallery represents more than 40 talented Canadian artists, some of whom are exclusive to Rendezvous. Contemporary and traditional paintings and sculptures are displayed in an atmosphere conducive to viewing fine works of art. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sun 11 am - 5 pm. SUN SPIRIT GALLERY 2444 Marine Dr (Dundarave), West Vancouver, BC V7V 1L1 T. 778-279-5052 gallery@sunspirit.ca www.sunspirit.ca Sun Spirit Gallery is proud to offer a superior collection of West Coast Native Art from renowned artists and emerging artists alike. The blend of contemporary and traditional work includes fine gold and silver jewellery, unique furniture and home accents, fine art prints, glass work and hand-carved masks and bentwood boxes. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm. TRENCH CONTEMPORARY ART 102-148 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1B5 T. 604-681-2577 Toll Free: 1-877-681-2577 info@trenchgallery.com www.trenchgallery.com The gallery exhibits international and local emerging, mid- and late-career artists working in all media. The gallery’s curatorial interest lies in both conceptual and formal art production but with an emphasis on relationship with the chosen material, rigorous discipline in the resolution of formal art problems and clarity of conceptual approach. In Gastown. Wed to Sat 11 am - 6 pm, or by appt.

Llewellyn Petley Jones, “Sailboats on the Thames” oil on canvas, 27.5 x 45 in.

Crossing, Surrey, BC V3S 2L5 T. 604-535-7445 Toll Free: 1-888-872-3107 mail@jenkinsshowlergallery.com www.jenkinsshowlergallery.com NEW LOCATION Established in 1990, and representing the work of over 40 Canadian artists — from emerging local talent to internationally respected painters including Toni Onley, Toller Cranston, and Ken Kirkby — Jenkins Showler Gallery offers a diverse selection of original art. Tues to Sat 10 am - 6 pm, Sun 11 am - 6 pm.

petley jones gallery Dealers in Contemporary & Historical Art

Displaying a rotating exhibition of Contemporary & Historical works Proud participants of the 2012 South Granville Art Walk 1554 West 6th Ave, Vancouver BC, V6J 1R2 | 604-732-5353 | petleyjones.com

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WHITE ROCK GALLERY 1247 Johnston Rd, White Rock, BC V3B 3Y9 T. 604-538-4452 F. 604-538-4453 Toll Free: 1-877-974-4278 info@whiterockgallery.com www.whiterockgallery.com A destination for art lovers throughout the Lower Mainland since 1989. They feature an extraordinary selection of original fine art, ceramics and sculpture. Their custom framing is a blend of creativity, expert design, and skilled workmanship. Tue to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sun noon - 5 pm. Closed holiday long weekends. YEATS STUDIO & GALLERY 2402 Marine Dr (Dundarave), West Vancouver, BC V7V 1L1 T. 778-279-8777 info@craigyeats.com www.craigyeats.com Often to be found working in this studio/gallery, Craig started painting watercolours in high school and made many studies of the foreshore areas of West Vancouver. Since then he has refined his technique to heighten the visual impact of his paintings. Recent paintings are created using a knife and are mostly semi-abstractions of the local West Vancouver landscapes, still life, the figure, and nature in general. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm. Public Galleries BURNABY ART GALLERY 6344 Deer Lake Ave, Burnaby, BC V5G 2J3 T. 604-297-4422 F. 604-205-7339 gallery@burnaby.ca www.burnabyartgallery.ca MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY, UNIVERSITY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA 6393 NW Marine Dr,, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z2 T. 604-822-5087 F. 604-822-2974 Jennifer.webb@ubc.ca www.moa.ubc.ca MOA is a place of architectural beauty, provocative programming, and exciting exhibitions — including Bill Reid’s iconic ”The Raven and the First Men,” and the new Multiversity Galleries, showcasing 10,000 objects from around the world. Café MOA, an elegant shop, and free tours. Spring/Summer: daily 10 am - 5 pm Tues to 9; Fall/Winter: closed

Galleries West Summer 2012 59

ashpanaira@telus.net www.ashpanairagallery.com Located in Killiney on the west side of Okanagan Lake, this contemporary art gallery and studio, owned by artist Carolina Sanchez de Bustamante, features original art in a home and garden setting. Discover a diverse group of emerging and established Okanagan and Canadian artists in painting, textiles, sculpture and ceramics. Open May 1 to October 15. Fri to Sun 10 am - 6 pm or by appt. Public Gallery VERNON PUBLIC ART GALLERY 3228 31 Ave, Vernon, BC V1T 2H3 T. 250-545-3173 F. 250-545-9096 info@vernonpublicartgallery.com www.vernonpublicartgallery.com The Vernon Public Art Gallery presents exhibitions of emerging and established artists working in a variety of media, including paintings sculpture, video, and installation art. The Vernon Public Art Gallery is the largest public gallery in the North Okanagan, and provides exhibition opportunities to local artists and artisans. Mon to Fri 10 am - 5 pm, Sat 11 am - 4 pm. GREATER VICTORIA Artist-run Gallery OPEN SPACE 510 Fort Street, 2nd floor, Victoria, BC V8W 1E6 T. 250-383-8833 F. 250-383-8841 openspace@openspace.ca www.openspace.ca Founded in September 1972 as a non-profit artistrun centre, Open Space supports professional artists — notably young and emerging — who utilize hybrid and experimental approaches to media, art, music and performance. It reflects the wide diversity of contemporary art practices in Victoria, across Canada and beyond. Tues to Sat noon - 5 pm.

Sophie Jodoin: close your eyes, June 28 to August 26, Richmond Art Gallery

Sophie Jodoin is a Montreal-based artist who aims to create a subtle sense of discomfort for the viewer with her black and white drawings. “The title is a contradiction,” she says. “Someone is telling you to close your eyes, but you can’t close your eyes.” Each of the drawings is small and intimate in scale, but they’re countered with a series of five larger drawings of burned houses. “This is where these stories take place,” Jodoin says. It’s as if the smaller drawings show the aftermath of the events in the burning houses. In the first room of the exhibition, 90 drawings which Jodoin describes as a collection of narratives, line the walls, and a multimedia work echoes the stories in the drawings. In an adjacent gallery, a table holds a collection of objects she describes as the “remnants” and “debris” of our lives. Jodoin’s work is notable for the strange nature of its storytelling, and her distinctive drawing style, with highly detailed portraits mixed with drawings that look more like collage. But the narrative of the whole in all her series, some of which can take up to two years to materialize, is as important as the effects of each individual work. Storylines are reflected in the gallery itself. “The rooms are chambers of our lives connected through time,” she says. “I leave it to the viewer to forge a relationship with the stories.”— Janet Nicol ABOVE: Sophie Jodoin, from the series Small Dramas & Little Nothings, conté and collage on mylar, 2008, 9.5" X 7.5". Mon, open Tues 10 am - 9 pm and Wed to Sun 10 am - 5 pm. Closed Dec 25 & 26. RICHMOND ART GALLERY 180-7700 Minoru Gate, Richmond, BC V6Y 1R9 T. 604-247-8300 F. 604-247-8301 gallery@richmond.ca www.richmondartgallery.org The Richmond Art Gallery plays a dynamic role in the growth of visual art in Richmond, and is a vital part of the contemporary art network in BC and Canada. Through excellence in exhibitions and education, the RAG strives to enhance an understanding and enjoyment of contemporary art. Mon to Fri 10 am - 6 pm, Sat and Sun 10 am - 5 pm. VANCOUVER ART GALLERY 750 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2H7

60 Galleries West Summer 2012

T. 604-662-4700 F. 604-682-1086 info@vanartgallery.bc.ca www.vanartgallery.bc.ca The largest art gallery in Western Canada is a focal point of downtown Vancouver. Presenting a full range of contemporary artists and major historical masters, it is recognized internationally for its superior exhibitions and excellent interactive education programs and houses a permanent collection of almost 7,000 works of art. Tues to Sun & Hols 10 am - 5:30 pm, Thur 10 am - 9 pm. VERNON Commercial Gallery ASHPA NAIRA ART GALLERY & STUDIO 9492 Houghton Rd., Vernon, BC V1H 2C9 T. 250-549-4249 F. 250-549-4209

Commercial Galleries ALCHERINGA GALLERY 665 Fort St, Victoria, BC V8W 1G6 T. 250-383-8224 F. 250-383-9399 alcheringa@islandnet.com www.alcheringa-gallery.com AVENUE GALLERY 2184 Oak Bay Ave, Victoria, BC V8R 1G3 T. 250-598-2184 F. 250-598-2185 info@theavenuegallery.com www.theavenuegallery.com Especially noted for finding and establishing new talent, the gallery considers itself a showcase for contemporary British Columbia, Canadian and international art, serving both corporate and private collectors — those new to the contemporary art scene as well as knowledgeable collectors. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun noon - 4 pm. ECLECTIC GALLERY 2170 Oak Bay Ave, Victoria, BC V8R 1E9 T. 250-590-8095 eclectichome@shaw.ca www.eclecticgallery.ca Specializing in original contemporary fine art paintings, sculpture, photography and jewellery, this welcoming light-filled gallery is known for its vibrant selection of local and regional art. It offers rotating art exhibitions of excellent quality at its easily-accessible location in the heart of Oak Bay Village. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm. MADRONA GALLERY 606 View St, Victoria, BC V8W 1J4 T. 250-380-4660 info@madronagallery.com www.madronagallery.com Open June 2010, Madrona Gallery represents emerging, mid-career and established Canadian artists. The gallery offers a welcoming environment to all visitors and Michael Warren’s expertise in Canadian art history and the contemporary art market facilitates the discovery of new artists and rare pieces from Canadian masters. Tues to Sat 10 am - 6 pm, Sun 11 - 6 pm. OUT OF THE MIST GALLERY 740 Douglas St, Victoria, BC V8W 3M6 T. 250-480-4930 oomistg@telus.net www.outofthemistgallery.com Dealers in classic and contemporary Northwest coast native art — including traditional potlatch masks, basketry, shamanic devices, button blankets, totem poles, artefacts and more. There is also a selection of plains beadwork and artefacts and other North American, Oceanic, and African tribal art. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun noon - 3 pm. RED ART GALLERY 2033 Oak Bay Ave, Victoria, BC V8R 1E5

T. 250-881-0462 me@redartgallery.ca www.redartgallery.ca A small gem in the heart of Oak Bay Village, the gallery is dynamic, welcoming and above all, dedicated to the love of art. Along with regular new paintings by award-winning painter Marion Evamy, other artists also showcase artwork that is contemporary, confident and affordable. Relax on the red couch and enjoy art described (by critic Robert Amos) as ”a blast of joy”. Tues to Sat noon - 4 pm. SOOKE HARBOUR HOUSE GALLERY 1528 Whiffen Spit Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0T4 T. 250-642-3421 F. 250-642-6988 gallery@sookeharbourhouse.com www.sookeharbourhouse.com/ Displayed throughout this award-winning inn, with its internationally-renowned dining room, the unconventional gallery was created in 1998 with carefully selected works by local artists on Vancouver Island. The art, in a variety of media, generally reflects themes of edible gardens, the ocean and the surrounding forest. Daily guided Garden Tours with art display in the Edible Gardens. Gallery open daily for self-guided tour. THE GALLERY IN OAK BAY VILLAGE 2223A Oak Bay Ave, Victoria, BC V8R 1G4 T. 250-598-9890 F. 250-592-5528 thegallery@shaw.ca Just a short distance from downtown in the picturesque Oak Bay Village, the gallery shows a variety of works by mostly local artists including Kathryn Amisson, Sid and Jesi Baron, Andres Bohaker, Bryony Wynne Boutillier, Tom Dickson, Robert Genn, Caren Heine, Harry Heine, Shawn A. Jackson, Brian R. Johnson, David Ladmore, Jack Livesey, Dorothy McKay, Bill McKibben, Ernst Marza, Hal Moldstad, Ron Parker, Natasha Perks. Mon to Fri 10 am - 5 pm, Sat 10 am - 3 pm. @galleries_west

Penny Eder recently opened White Dog Studio Gallery on Millar Creek Rd in Whistler, BC with emphasis on original work by emerging artists. VIEW ART GALLERY 104-860 View St, Victoria, BC V8W 3Z8 T. 250-213-1162 info@viewartgallery.com www.viewartgallery.com Located in the Harris Green/New Town neighbourhood of downtown Victoria just a short stroll from the major hotels and downtown shops. The focus of the gallery is contemporary modern art works by a talented group of young and mid-career artists from Canada and the US. Wed to Sat 11 am - 5 pm or by appointment. WEST END GALLERY 1203 Broad Street, Victoria, BC V8W 2A4 T. 250-388-0009 info@westendgalleryltd.com www.westendgalleryltd.com First established in Edmonton in 1975, Dan and Lana Hudon opened a second Gallery located in the heart of downtown Victoria in 1994. Visitors are encouraged to explore and select from a wide range of styles and prices, from emerging to established artists and to purchase with confidence. Mon to Fri 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun/Holidays noon - 4 pm. WINCHESTER GALLERIES 2260 Oak Bay Ave, Victoria, BC V8R 1G7 T. 250-595-2777 F. 250-595-2310 art@winchestergalleriesltd.com www.winchestergalleriesltd.com Exclusive fine art dealers handling Canadian historical and contemporary art. Opened in 1974, the gallery has been under the ownership of Gunter H.J. Heinrich and Anthony R.H. Sam since 1994 and in 2003 has moved to its own building in Oak Bay Village. They regularly run major exhibitions of two to three weeks both here and in two other downtown galleries. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm. Public Galleries 1040 Moss Street, Victoria, BC V8V 4P1 T. 250-384-4171 F. 250-361-3995 communications@aggv.bc.ca www.aggv.bc.ca Engaging, challenging and inspiring! Victoria’s public art museum presents a variety of visual art experiences, media and cultures through historical

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to contemporary art from Asia, Europe and Canada — including the work of BC’s premiere landscape artist, Emily Carr, portrayed through paintings, writings and photographs. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Thurs till 9 pm; Sun noon - 5 pm. LEGACY ART GALLERY 630 Yates St, Victoria, BC V8W 1K9 T. 250-381-7645 F. 250-381-7609 legacy@uvic.ca www.legacygallery.ca The Legacy Art Gallery features works from the University of Victoria Art Collections, including paintings, drawings and sculptures by some of the bestknown artists in the Pacific Northwest, bequeathed to the University of Victoria by Dr. Michael C. Williams. Two gallery spaces feature a variety of rotating exhibits. Phone, or visit website for hours. MALTWOOD PRINTS AND DRAWINGS GALLERY AT THE MCPHERSON LIBRARY Box 3025 Stn CSC, McPherson Library, Room 027 Finnerty Road, Victoria, BC V8W 3P2 T. 250-381-7645 F. 250-381-7609 maltpub@finearts.uvic.ca www.uvac.uvic.ca The Maltwood Prints and Drawings Gallery, located on the lower level ofthe McPherson Library, exhibits prints, drawings, paintings and photographs from the University of Victoria’s permanent art collection, including a large contemporary First Nations print collection. Hours of operation coincide with McPherson Library. Call for current hours.

WHISTLER Commercial Galleries BLACK TUSK GALLERY 108-4293 Mountain Square, Whistler, BC V0N 1B4 info@blacktusk.ca www.blacktusk.ca The Black Tusk Gallery creates unique acquisition opportunities for collectors with a variety of works by both established and up-and-coming First Nations artists whose work reflects the ancient histories and traditions of the coastal people. Located on the lobby level of the Hilton Hotel, next to Skiers Plaza. Open daily. MOUNTAIN GALLERIES AT THE FAIRMONT Fairmont Chateau Whistler, 4599 Chateau Blvd, Whistler, BC V0N 1B4 T. 604-935-1862 Toll Free: 1-888-310-9726 whistler@mountaingalleries.com www.mountaingalleries.com Located in The Fairmont Chateau Whistler, Mountain Galleries is a favourite stop for collectors of Canadian art, featuring museum-quality paintings, sculpture and unique Inuit carvings. With three galleries, a combined total of 6080 square feet of exhibition space, and a state of the art warehouse/ studio in Jasper, they frequently host exhibitions, artist demonstrations and workshops. Daily 10 am - 10 pm.

Steven Armstrong, June 2 to 14, West End Gallery, Victoria

“I like to paint images from the natural environment,” says Victoria-based artist Steven Armstrong. His upcoming exhibition of acrylic paintings showcases images of the mountains of Alberta and the BC coastline, “and everything in between,” he says. He’s endlessly inspired by the outdoors, and often returns to the same spots again and again to paint. One of his current Vancouver Island landscapes shows an arbutus tree rooted at the side of a cliff overlooking the Georgia Strait. Called The Old and the New, it depicts the tree's limbs with dead and living branches twisted together. The shapes and textures of the coastal landscape pull him in, and he’s been painting it since 1997, as the atmosphere, light and conditions are always changing. “I will go to an area I like and paint half a dozen paintings and take photographs. I will sit on the image for about a year and then go back.” Armstrong describes his landscapes as having a looseness to them. “The viewer fills in the holes,” he says. “They’re not ultra-realistic. Not everything is defined.” It reflects the artist’s own experience of the landscape, which is variable, according to the season and the year. — Janet Nicol ABOVE: Steven Armstrong, Water for Gardens, acrylic on canvas, 2011, 48" X 48". www.gallerieswest.ca

Galleries West Summer 2012 61

Douglas Williamson: Urban Theology, April 25 to May 9, Wallace Galleries, Calgary

Doug Williamson, Wages of Sin, acrylic on canvas. WHITE DOG WHISTLER STUDIO GALLERY 1074 Millar Creek Road, Whistler, BC V0N 1B1 T. 604-932-2205 penny@whitedogwhistler.com www.whitedogwhistler.com

ALBERTA GALLERIES BANFF Commercial Galleries CANADA HOUSE GALLERY PO Box 1570 201 Bear St, Banff, AB T1L 1B5 T. 403-762-3757 F. 403-762-8052 Toll Free: 1-800-419-1298 info@canadahouse.com www.canadahouse.com A Banff destination since 1974, just a short drive from Calgary. This friendly and fresh gallery represents a large collection of current Canadian art — paintings and sculpture from Canada’s best landscape, contemporary and Native artists. Check website for daily updates. Member of Art Dealers Association of Canada. Open daily. MOUNTAIN GALLERIES AT THE FAIRMONT Fairmont Banff Springs, 405 Spray Ave, Banff, AB T. 403-760-2382 Toll Free: 1-800-310-9726 banff@mountaingalleries.com www.mountaingalleries.com

In the western art historical tradition, there are many ways to read a painting, including a language of symbols embedded in naturalistic representation. Urban Theology, new works in oil by Douglas Williamson depict sumptuously painted birds in gritty cityscapes. The titles invite us to meditate on a subtext based in biblical metaphor: Turn or Burn, Nineveh, Between Two Thieves. Animals and birds in stories and art function as symbols, and meanings vary by culture and are created through a mix of observation and projection — clever as a monkey, free as a bird, memory like an elephant. In painting, depictions of animals often hide a symbolic subtext (dogs in historic portraiture signify marital fidelity, the crow is a highly social bird, adaptive, intelligent and caring; the crow archetype is a trickster). Williamson came to painting after graduating in sculpture from the University of Calgary, and he studied with the American portrait artist David Leffel. The result, seen in this show, blends strong visual concept with a mastery of traditional painting techniques. — Margaret Bessai

Located in The Fairmont Banff Springs, Mountain Galleries is a favourite stop for collectors of Canadian art, featuring museum-quality paintings, sculpture and unique Inuit carvings. With three galleries, a combined total of 6080 square feet of exhibition space, and a state of the art warehouse/studio in Jasper, they frequently host exhibitions, artist demonstrations and workshops. Daily 10 am - 10 pm. WILLOCK & SAX GALLERY Box 2469, 110 Bison Courtyard, 211 Bear St, Banff, AB T1L 1C2 T. 403-762-2214 Toll Free: 1-866-859-2220 fineart@willockandsaxgallery.com www.willockandsaxgallery.com Art reflects the spiritual and physical reliance of humanity on the natural world. The Willock & Sax Gallery is innovative and eclectic, rooted in the idea that art is about people, place, and community. They carry work by mainly Western Canadian contemporary and historic artists, who enjoy international, national, and regional reputations. Daily 10 am - 6 pm. Public Galleries WALTER PHILLIPS GALLERY 107 Tunnel Mountain Road, Box 1020 Stn 40, Banff, AB T1L 1H5 T. 403-762-6281 F. 403-762-6659 walter_phillipsgallery@banffcentre.ca www.banffcentre.ca/wpg/ The gallery is exclusively committed to the production, presentation, collection and analysis of contemporary art and is dedicated to developing a thoughtful and stimulating forum for visual art and

Dwayne Harty, June, Willock & Sax Gallery, Banff; June 16 to November 15, Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, Banff

Landscape and wildlife painter Dwayne Harty will have dual shows in Banff this summer, both highlighting work he’s done over the past three years as part of the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Intitiative. Created to protect a crucial, two-nation string of alpine wildlife corridors, Y2Y is known for matching artists, writers, and scientists with projects to bring light to the endangered region. Harty’s lush paintings depict life at altitude, with clear inspiration from earlier wildlife painters, like Carl Runguis, who brought western landscapes to life. The Whyte show (called Yellowstone to Yukon: The Journey of 62 Galleries West Summer 2012

curatorial practice. The WPG develops exhibitions, commissions new works and engages in dialogues about curatorial practice through symposia and workshops. Wed to Sun 12:30 pm - 5 pm, Thurs till 9 pm. Free gallery tours Thurs 7 pm. WHYTE MUSEUM OF THE CANADIAN ROCKIES PO Box 160 111 Bear St, Banff, AB T1L 1A3 T. 403-762-2291 F. 403-762-8919 info@whyte.org www.whyte.org Located on a spectacular site beside the Bow River in downtown Banff. Discover the rich natural and cultural heritage of the Canadian Rockies. The Museum offers guided tours of Banff’s heritage log homes and cabins; historic walking tours of the Banff townsite; and exhibition tours of the galleries. Open daily, 10 am - 5 pm. BLACK DIAMOND Commercial Gallery BLUEROCK GALLERY 110 Centre Ave, Box 1290, Black Diamond, AB T0L 0H0 T. 403-933-5047 F. 403-933-5050 store@bluerockgallery.ca www.bluerockgallery.ca Bluerock Gallery is a go-to place for one-of-a-kind fine art and craft, jewellery, cards and inspiring books. New art arrives regularly and the impressive collection by more than 100 artists is constantly being expanded and rotated. Wed to Mon 11 am - 5 pm; Dec 1 - 24 daily 11 am - 7 pm.

BRAGG CREEK Commercial Galleries SUNCATCHER’S DESIGN STUDIO 3-1 White Ave, Trading Post Mall, PO Box 840, Bragg Creek, AB T0L 0K0 T. 403-949-4332 F. 403-278-6299 info@suncatchersdesigns.com www.suncatchersdesigns.com Suncatcher’s has been providing Calgary and area with custom stained glass since 1979. As well as an eclectic mix of original art, antiques, and jewellery the boutique has a selection of pre-made stained glass panels. The Gallery is currently featuring paintings by local artists Lauchie and Elaine Fleming, Karin Taylor, and Lissi Legge; sculptures by Karin Taylor; and fused glass by Pat Frocklage. Daily 11 am to 5 pm, Tuesday by chance or appointment. THE ALICAT GALLERY 1 Bragg Creek Village Centre, Box 463, Bragg Creek, AB T0L 0K0 T. 403-949-3777 F. 403-949-3777 gallery@alicatgallery.com www.alicatgallery.com Located about 30 minutes west of Calgary, the gallery opened in 1987. It represents more than 100 local and Western Canadian artists and artisans working in oils, acrylics and watercolours. Ceramics, carvings, sculpture and ironwork of the finest quality are also shown. Daily 11 am - 5 pm. CALGARY Artist-run Galleries THE NEW GALLERY 212-100 7 Ave SW (Art Central), Calgary, AB T2P 0W4 T. 403-233-2399 F. 403-290-1714 info@thenewgallery.org www.thenewgallery.org From its new location on the second level of Art Central, Calgary’s oldest artist-run centre is committed to providing a forum for a wide spectrum of critical discourse and multi-disciplinary practices within the contemporary visual arts. Tues to Sat 11 am - 5 pm. TRUCK CONTEMPORARY ART IN CALGARY 815 1 St SW, lower level, Calgary, AB T2P 1N3 T. 403-261-7702 F. 403-264-7737 info@truck.ca www.truck.ca/ TRUCK is a non-profit, artist-run centre dedicated to the presentation of contemporary art. Their goal is to incite dialogue locally, which contributes to the global critical discourse on contemporary art. TRUCK presents dynamic programming, fosters innovative artistic practices, encourages experimentation, and promotes a dialogue between artists and the public. Free admission. Tues to Fri 11 am - 5 pm, Sat noon - 5 pm. Commercial Galleries ART CENTRAL 100 7 Ave SW, Art Central, Calgary, AB T2P 0W4 www.artcentral.ca On Facebook at Art Central YYC This landmark building on the NW corner of 7th Ave and Centre St SW in downtown Calgary has been renovated to house artist studios, galleries, and ancillary retail businesses. Centrally located opposite Hyatt

Wildlife and Art), originally seen last year at the National Wildlife Museum in Jackson, Wyoming, is a selection of paintings of both remote and recognizable landscapes in the Rocky Mountains, extending from Wyoming to Canada’s north. Wildlife — bears, birds, caribou, sheep, antelope — are depicted in their natural environments. Harty, who lives in the Jackson area, has spent years exploring the wild areas of the Rockies on both sides of the border, and paintings have been drawn from both museums’ permanent collections, combined with new work from the Y2Y initiative. The idea is to delineate Rocky Mountain mammals within their natural habitats, to further the idea of conserving the region. The Willock & Sax show will include paintings and sketches. — Jill Sawyer LEFT: Dwayne Harty, Pronghorn above Red Hills Bottleneck, Wyoming, oil on canvas, 16" X 20". www.gallerieswest.ca

Regency Hotel, only one block from Stephen Avenue Walk. For more information or inquiries visit website. ARTS ON ATLANTIC GALLERY 1312A 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0T3 T. 403-264-6627 F. 403-264-6628 info@artsonatlantic.com www.artsonatlantic.com The gallery showcases an eclectic mix of fine Canadian art and craft. Five minutes from downtown, it’s a warm, intimate space in historic Inglewood. Mediums include paintings, etchings, blown and fused glass, jewellery, stone and wood carvings and photography. Also offering special limited edition books and handmade journals, books and cards. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm. AXIS CONTEMPORARY ART 203-100 7 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0W4 T. 403-262-3356 info@axisart.ca www.axisart.ca Represents professional Canadian and International artists working in diverse media including painting, sculpture, printmaking, drawing and photography. The artists represent distinctive artistic practices in terms of their approach, technique and themes. The result: work that is compelling, fresh and engaging. Mon to Fri 10:30 am - 5:30 pm, First Thurs till 9 pm, Sat 11 am - 5 pm. @galleries_west

Axis Contemporary Art in Calgary has recently moved upstairs to a more compact space in Art Central. CIRCA 1226A 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0T1 T. 403-290-0145 Toll Free: 1-877-290-0145 circa5060@yahoo.ca www.circa5060.ca Circa is a one-of-a-kind gallery specializing in midcentury modern art glass from around the world. All items are hand blown works of art from the 1940-1960s. The focus is on European art glass from the best known studios and furnaces. Circa brings world-class vintage art glass to Calgary from centres across Europe. A visual spectacle of color, form and modernism. Daily 10 am - 5 pm. DADE ART AND DESIGN LAB 1327 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0T2 T. 403-454-0243 F. 403-454-0282 info@dadegallery.com www.dadegallery.com With a distinctive product mix and presentation philosophy DaDe ART & DESIGN LAB offers a complete product range for modern living — including original art and sculpture by local artists, and exclusive furniture from around the world. Tues to Sun 11 am - 6 pm; Thurs till 8 pm. DIANA PAUL GALLERIES 737 2 ST SW, Calgary, AB T2P 3J1 T. 403-262-9947 F. 403-262-9911 dpg@dianapaulgalleries.com www.dianapaulgalleries.com Recently relocated to the heritage Lancaster Building just off Stephen Avenue Walk. Specializing in high quality fine art — small and large format works — in styles from super-realism to impressionism to semi-abstract. Featuring the work of emerging and well-established artists. Tues to Sat 10:30 am - 5:30 pm. ENDEAVOR ARTS 200-1209 1 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0V3 T. 403-532-7800 info@endeavorarts.com www.endeavorarts.com Endeavor Arts represents local artists who create art in new ways, focusing on mixed media and other types of innovative artwork and avoiding more traditional media and methods. Recognizing that art is being consumed differently, there is also a digital gallery, with 5 monitors, showing rotating artwork and videos or photos of the process of how some artists make a specific piece. Tues to Sat 11 am - 5 pm. FORTUNE FINE ART 3-215 39 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 7E3 T. 403-277-7252 F. 403-277-7364 info@fortunefineart.com www.fortunefineart.com This Canadiana gallery offers an extensive collection of fine realism paintings depicting scenes from

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across Canada. Works by more than 240 artists including such well-known names as Norman Brown, ”Duncan” MacKinnon Crockford, W.R. deGarth, N. de Grandmaison, Roland Gissing, George Horvath, Georgia Jarvis, Glenn Olson, Torquil Reed, Colin Williams and Marguerite Zwicker. For sale or lease. Browsers welcome. Please call for hours. FRAMED ON FIFTH 1207 5 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2N 0S1 T. 403-244-3688 info@framedonfifth.com www.framedonfifth.com A framing shop? Yes, but also a charming gallery presenting local artists in monthly shows. Owner Hannah White offers a unique experience for artists and collectors alike. Located in eclectic Kensington with ample on-street parking. Tues to Fri 10 am - 6 pm, Sat 10 am - 5 pm. GAINSBOROUGH GALLERIES 441 5 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 2V1 T. 403-262-3715 F. 403-262-3743 Toll Free: 1-866-425-5373 art@gainsboroughgalleries.com www.gainsboroughgalleries.com Extensive collection of fine artists including Tinyan, Raftery, Wood, Desrosiers, Lyon, Hedrick, Min Ma, Simard, Brandel, Schlademan, Bond, Cameron, Crump and Charlesworth. Calgary’s largest collection of bronze — by Stewart, Cheek, Lansing, Taylor, Danyluk and Arthur. Gemstone carvings by Lyle Sopel. Mon to Fri 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sat till 5 pm. GALLERIA - INGLEWOOD 907 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0S5 T. 403-270-3612 galleria@shaw.ca www.calgarycraftedgifts.com Galleria Inglewood represents more than 25 emerging and established artists. Their contemporary works include oils, watercolour, acrylics and mixed media. In 3 separate galleries they also show functional, decorative and sculptural pottery by local clay artists and fine handcrafts by Canadian artisans. Minutes from downtown in historic Inglewood. Free parking. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun noon - 5 pm. GERRY THOMAS GALLERY 100-602 11 Ave SW - lower level, Calgary, AB T2R 1J8 T. 403-265-1630 F. 403-265-1634 info@gerrythomas.com www.gerrythomasgallery.com This contemporary, New York-style gallery boasts an impressive 4600 sq ft of original art ranging from abstract oil paintings, glass sculpture and photography to historic works by Roland Gissing. The stylish Gallery includes an art deco bar, modern lounge furniture and catering facilities perfect for corporate and private events. Open Wed to Sat 10 am - 6 pm.

T H E A L I C AT G A L L E R Y Representing Western Canadian artists since 1987

25th Annual Spring Exhibition & Sale Featuring new works by: Michael O’Toole, David Langevin, Phil Buytendorp, Jean Pederson and David Zimmerman. Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, May 23, 24, 25, 11 am to 5 pm. Sale begins at the Gala Reception by invitation only Friday, May 25, 2012, 7:30 pm.

Michael O’Toole, Beached Haida Gwaii, acrylic on canvas, 40” x 40”

Jean Pederson, Transition (detail), mixed media, 24” x 36”

www.alicatgallery.com 403-949-3777

Located about 30 minutes west of Calgary in beautiful À>}}Ê Àii ]Ê LiÀÌ>ÊUÊ"«i ÊÇÊ`>ÞÃÊ>ÊÜii ]Ê££Ê> ÊÌ ÊxÊ« °

NORMAN BROWN 1933-1999

GIBSON FINE ART LTD 628 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0E2 T. 403-244-2000 info@gibsonfineart.ca www.gibsonfineart.ca Now located in the Design District, the gallery showcases contemporary art in a wide variety of styles and media and of significant regional and national scope — from emerging and established artists of the highest quality. Tues to Sat 10 am 5 pm. HERRINGER KISS GALLERY 709 A 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0E3 T. 403-228-4889 F. 403-228-4809 info@herringerkissgallery.com www.herringerkissgallery.com A member of the Art Dealers Association of Canada, the gallery represents over 25 artists working in a range of mediums including painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture and mixed media works. Gallery artists include Angela Leach, Toni Hafkenscheid, Akiko Taniguchi, Bill Laing, Marjan Eggermont, Tivadar Boté, Ken Webb, Harry Kiyooka, Reinhard Skoracki, Glen Semple, Elizabeth Barnes, David Burdeny, Dennis Ekstedt, Renée Duval, Ben Van Netten, Siobhan Humston, Bratsa Bonifacho, Eve Leader, Jude Griebel, Stefanja Dumanowski, Marianne Lovink and Eszter Burghardt. Tues to Fri 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 11 am - 5 pm. INFLUX JEWELLERY GALLERY 201-100 7 Ave SW, Art Central, Calgary, AB T2P 0W4 T. 403-266-7527 info@influxgallery.com www.influxgallery.com Specializing in Canadian contemporary art jewellery, the gallery represents over 40 of Canada’s most talented jewellery artists with work ranging from

Woodland Stream, Oil, 36” x 48”

Fortune Fine Art Art Sales and Rentals Featuring Historical and Contemporary Canadian Art With over 1,500 original works available

#3, 215 – 39th Avenue N.E., Calgary, Alberta T2E 7E3 For hours, please call 403-277-7252 www.fortunefineart.com

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tions, with a focus on presenting topical art in an informed context. Monthly rotation of shows. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm and by appt. STEPHEN LOWE ART GALLERY 2nd level, Bow Valley Square III, 251, 255 - 5 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 3G6 T. 403-261-1602 F. 403-261-2981 stephenloweartgallery@shaw.ca www.stephenloweartgallery.ca Established since 1979, the gallery features an extensive portfolio of distinguished Canadian artists offering fine original paintings, glass, ceramics and sculptures in traditional and contemporary genres. Ongoing solo and group exhibitions welcome everyone from browsers to experienced collectors. Personalized corporate and residential consulting. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5 pm. (Free Sat parking) NEW Second location at West Market Square. SWIRL FINE ART & DESIGN 104-100 7 Ave SW, Art Central, Calgary, AB T2P 0W4 T. 403-266-5337 tracy@swirlfineart.com www.swirlfineart.com Swirl Fine Art and Design showcases fine art originals from local and regional artists. The gallery focuses on art to beautify the home with a wide selection of paintings and sculptures from aspiring and well-established artists. New shows on the first Thursday of every month, coincide with Art Central’s First Thursday festivities. Encaustic workshops twice monthly. Tues to Fri 10 am - 5 pm, Sat 11 am - 5 pm.

Sean William Randall: Introductions, April 12 to May 12, Weiss Gallery, Calgary

Sean William Randall’s city-scapes invoke our innate memory of place — walking downtown in the rain, sleepless, staring out into tiny worlds across the darkness, hanging out by the empty Dairy Queen, staring at the long spring afternoon reflected in the shadows of the plate-glass window. “These scenes catch the corner of my eye,” Randall says. “If I could, I would paint them right there.” Worked up from black gesso in a limited palette on panel, the brushstrokes are invisible. Each scene plays with reflections, abstracting reality. Randall works from reference photos, but is not interested in the limitations of photo-realism dictated by the lens: single view-point, depth of field, random details. Instead, he strives to paint how we remember time, possibly outside the 21st century experience of it, mediated by digital devices that interrupt, freeze, instantly share, and re-contextualize. At the Weiss Gallery, his work will be shown in a debut exhibition with work by Karrie Arthurs, Tim Merrett, and Debra VanTuinen. — Margaret Bessai ABOVE: Sean William Randall, Allergy Warning, acrylic on board, 2012, 36" X 63".

subtle objects for everyday wear to extravagant and sculptural artworks — rings, pendants, necklaces, brooches, bracelets and earrings. Also offer custom design services. Tues to Sat 11 am - 5 pm. INGLEWOOD FINE ARTS 1223B 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0S9 T. 403-262-5011 info@inglewoodfinearts.com www.inglewoodfinearts.com Recently relocated from Montreal, owner/director Michel Arseneau is featuring the works of internationally-recognized artist Charles Carson in permanent exhibition at his new Inglewood Fine Arts gallery. He also represents several emerging artists from South America who will be introduced over the next several months. Tues to Sat 10:30 am - 5 pm, Thurs till 9 pm, Sun noon - 4 pm. JARVIS HALL FINE ART 617 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0E1 T. 403-206-9942 F. 403-206-1399 info@jarvishallfineart.com www.jarvishallfineart.com Exhibiting contemporary Canadian art in painting, drawing, printmaking and sculpture. Currently representing Mark Dicey, Elena Evanoff, Dean Turner and Carl White. Works of art on consignment are also available throughout the year by historical and contemporary Canadian and international artists. Submissions for representation or questions relating to consigning works of art for sale can be made via email. LATITUDE ART GALLERY 150-625 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0E1 T. 403-262-9598 info@latitudeartgallery.com www.latitudeartgallery.com Located in the Design District on 11 Ave SW, Latitude Art Gallery showcases a variety of Canadian and international artists. They specialize in contemporary style art including landscapes, still life’s, abstract, and figurative. Tues to Fri 10 am - 5:30 am, Sat 11 am - 5 pm, and by appointment.

64 Galleries West Summer 2012

LOCH GALLERY 1516 4 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 1H5 T. 403-209-8542 Toll Free: 1-866-202-0888 calgary@lochgallery.com www.lochgallery.com Established in 1972 in Winnipeg, the Loch Gallery specializes in building collections of quality Canadian, American, British and European paintings and sculpture. It represents original 19th and 20th century artwork of collectable and historic interest, as well as a select group of gifted professional artists from across Canada including Ivan Eyre, Leo Mol, Ron Bolt, Peter Sawatzky, Anna Wiechec, Philip Craig and Carol Stewart. Also located in Winnipeg and Toronto. Tues to Sat 10 am - 6 pm. MASTERS GALLERY 2115 4 St SW, Calgary, AB T2S 1W8 T. 403-245-2064 F. 403-244-1636 mastersgallery@shawcable.com www.mastersgalleryltd.com Celebrating more than 35 years as dealers of top quality Canadian historical and contemporary art. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm. MOONSTONE CREATION NATIVE GALLERY 1416 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0T5 T. 403-261-2650 F. 403-261-2654 yvonne@moonstonecreation.ca www.moonstonecreation.ca Along with showcasing the traditional artwork of owner Yvonne Jobin, the gallery represents many First Nations and Metis artists. Fine art, pottery, carvings, turquoise and Westcoast jewellery, beadwork, leatherwork and authentic, locally-made gifts can be found in this unique gallery. Tues to Sat 10:30 am - 6 pm, Sun 11 am - 4 pm. NEWZONES 730 - 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0E4 T. 403-266-1972 F. 403-266-1987 info@newzones.com www.newzones.com/ Opened in 1992, Newzones represents leading

names in contemporary Canadian art. The gallery has developed strong regional, national, and international followings for its artists. The focus has been a program of curated exhibitions, international art fairs and publishing projects. Services include consulting, collection building, installation and appraisals. Tues to Sat 10:30 am - 5:30 pm and by appointment. PAUL KUHN GALLERY 724 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0E4 T. 403-263-1162 F. 403-262-9426 paul@paulkuhngallery.com www.paulkuhngallery.com Focuses on national and regional contemporary Canadian paintings, drawings, prints and sculpture; also shows contemporary American prints. Exhibitions change monthly featuring established and emerging artists along with themed group shows. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm. RUBERTO OSTBERG GALLERY 2108 18 St NW, Calgary, AB T2M 3T3 T. 403-289-3388 anna@ruberto-ostberg.com www.ruberto-ostberg.com This bright exhibition space in the residential community of Capitol Hill shows a variety of contemporary art styles and media in an inner city location for artists and art lovers to meet and interact. Some of the work is produced on-site by artists working in the adjoining Purple Door Art Studio space. Tues to Sat noon - 5 pm. SKEW GALLERY 1615 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3C 0J7 T. 403-244-4445 ebvisualarts@shaw.ca www.skewgallery.com A recently-opened contemporary art gallery, offering an opportunity for both the uninitiated and the seasoned collector to view or acquire a dynamic range of painting, sculpture and photography from across Canada. Specializing in theme group exhibi-

THE COLLECTORS’ GALLERY OF ART 1332 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0T3 T. 403-245-8300 F. 403-245-8315 mail@cgoart.com www.cgoart.com Specializing in important Canadian art from the 19th to the 21st century including early topographical paintings, Canadian impressionists and Group of Seven. The Collectors’ Gallery represents over 30 prominent Canadian contemporary artists. Tues to Fri 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 10 am - 5 pm. THE WEISS GALLERY 1021 6 St SW (corner 11 Ave), Calgary, AB T2R 1R2 T. 403-262-1880 info@theweissgallery.com www.theweissgallery.com A showcase for craft-intensive, descriptive art, The Weiss Gallery represents a dynamic group of artists whose approaches to painting, drawing, photography and sculpture, pay respect to timehonoured methods of artmaking. With an eye on history and old world aesthetics, these artists have found beautiful expression within a contemporary vision and context. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm or by appointment. TRÉPANIERBAER 105, 999 8 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 1J5 T. 403-244-2066 F. 403-244-2094 info@tbg1.com www.trepanierbaer.com A progressive and friendly commercial gallery specializing in the exhibition and sale of Canadian and international art. In addition to representing wellknown senior and mid-career artists, the gallery also maintains an active and successful program for the presentation of younger emerging Canadian artists’ work. Tues to Sat 11 am - 5 pm and by appointment. VIRGINIA CHRISTOPHER FINE ART 816 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0E5 T. 403-263-4346 info@virginiachristopherfineart.com www.virginiachristopherfineart.com Established in 1980, the gallery has earned a national reputation among discerning collectors of contemporary Canadian art. Exhibitions change monthly, showcasing museum-calibre, original paintings, sculpture and ceramics by artists with well-established reputations. Representing the Estate of Luke O Lindoe (1913-1999). Gallery open Tues to Sat 11 am - 5:30 pm. The Vue Café serves lunch 11 am - 4 pm. Inquiries invited for private functions. WALLACE GALLERIES LTD 500 5 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 3L5 T. 403-262-8050 F. 403-264-7112 colette@wallacegalleries.com www.wallacegalleries.com In the heart of downtown Calgary, Wallace Galleries Ltd. has been a part of the art community since 1986. With regular group and solo shows the gallery is proud to represent some of Canada’s most accomplished and upcoming contemporary artists working in oils, acrylics, mixed media and watercolor as well sculpture and pottery. There is always

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something visually stimulating to see at Wallace Galleries Ltd. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm. WEBSTER GALLERIES 812 - 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0E5 T. 403-263-6500 F. 403-263-6501 info@webstergalleries.com www.webstergalleries.com Established in 1979, the gallery exhibits an extensive collection of original oil and acrylic paintings, bronze, ceramic, stone sculptures and Inuit art in a 10,000 square foot space. Webster Galleries Inc also houses a complete frame design and workshop facility. Free parking at the rear of the gallery for customer convenience. Tues to Sat 10 am - 6 pm. Cooperative Galleries ALBERTA SOCIETY OF ARTISTS GALLERY AT LOUGHEED HOUSE 703 13 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0K8 T. 403-244-6333 north@artists-society.ab.ca www.artists-society.ab.ca Representing members of the society’s juried professional contemporary Alberta artists, the gallery strives to increase public awareness and appreciation of the visual arts through exhibition and education. Located in the lower level ballroom of historic Lougheed House. Wed to Fri 11 am - 4 pm, Sat and Sun 10 am - 4 pm. ARTPOINT GALLERY AND STUDIOS 1139 - 11 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 3G1 T. 403-265-6867 F. 403-265-6867 info@artpoint.ca www.artpoint.ca Two galleries and 23 onsite-artist studios. The 50+ artist members and invited artists show and sell their works in monthly changing exhibitions —from painting to sculpture; photography to textiles. Located next to the CPR tracks in Ramsay. Turn E from 8 St onto 11 Ave SE and follow the gravel road. Thurs & Fri 1 pm - 5 pm, Sat 11 am to 5 pm, or by appointment. Public Galleries ART GALLERY OF CALGARY 117 - 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 1B4 T. 403-770-1350 F. 403-264-8077 info@artgallerycalgary.org www.artgallerycalgary.org The Art Gallery of Calgary is an interactive and dynamic forum for contemporary art exhibitions and activities that foster appreciation and understanding of visual culture. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm. To 10 pm every first Thursday of the month. GLENBOW MUSEUM 130 - 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0P3 T. 403-268-4100 F. 403-262-4045 glenbow@glenbow.org www.glenbow.org/ Located in the heart of downtown Calgary - visitors experience Glenbow Museum’s diverse exhibits, special programs and vast collections including Asian, Contemporary, Modernist and Historical Art. Daily 9 am - 5 pm, Sun noon - 5 pm. Adult $14, Sen $10, Stu $9, Family $28.00; Members and under 6 free. Glenbow Shop open daily 10 am - 5:30 pm. @galleries_west

IMCA and MOCA announce Memo of Understanding to guide joint efforts to establish home for a dedicated Museum for Contemporary Art in Calgary LEIGHTON ART CENTRE Box 9, Site 31, R.R. 8 Site 31, Comp. #9., RR 8 By Millarville, 16 km south of Calgary off Hwy 22 west, Calgary, AB T2J 2T9 T. 403-931-3633 F. 403-931-3673 info@leightoncentre.org www.leightoncentre.org The Leighton Art Centre is situated on 80 acres of spectacular landscape in the Alberta foothills, 15 minutes southwest of Calgary. This Alberta Historic Resource houses the former home of landscape painter A.C. Leighton. They offer changing exhibitions, art sales, art workshops and children’s programming. Check website for full visitor’s information. Tues to Sat 10 am - 4 pm. MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART - CALGARY 104-800 Macleod Tr SE, Calgary, AB T2G 2M3

www.gallerieswest.ca

T. 403-262-1737 F. 403-262-1764 jacek@mocacalgary.org www.mocacalgary,org Dedicated to the presentation of contemporary Canadian visual arts, architecture and design within a context of international art, the gallery is engaged in the advancement of knowledge and understanding of contemporary art practices through a balanced program of visual art exhibitions to the public of Calgary and visitors. Admission: adults - $4; senior/students - $2; family - $8; members - free; free general admission on Thurs. Tues to Fri 11 am - 5 pm, Sat noon - 4 pm.

2D or nott 2D.

CAMROSE Commercial Gallery CANDLER ART GALLERY 5002 50 St, Camrose, AB T4V 1R2 T. 780-672-8401 F. 780-679-4121 Toll Free: 1-888-672-8401 candler@syban.net www.candlerartgallery.com Fresh, vibrant and alive describe both the artwork and the experience when you visit this recently restored gallery. You will discover a diverse group of both emerging and established artists including J. Brager, B. Cheng, R. Chow, H. deJager, K. Duke, J. Kamikura, E. Lower Pidgeon, J. Peters, A. Pfannmuller, K. Ritcher, D. Zasadny — all well priced. Mon to Fri 9 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 9:30 am - 5 pm. Or by appt.

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CANMORE Commercial Galleries CARTER-RYAN GALLERY AND LIVE ART VENUE 705 Main St, Canmore, AB T1W 2B2 T. 403-621-1000 info@carter-ryan.com www.carter-ryan.com Carter-Ryan Gallery is home to one of Canada’s most prolific contemporary Aboriginal artists, Jason Carter. Both a painter and soapstone carver, Carter illustrated ”WHO IS BOO: The Curious Tales of One Trickster Rabbit”. And 21 of his 66 illustrations, on 30” x 40” canvases are now on display. Musical and theatrical acts change weekly in the back half of this 1700 sq ft gallery. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sun noon - 4 pm.

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THE AVENS GALLERY 104-709 Main St, Canmore, AB T1W 2B2 T. 403-678-4471 theavensgallery@telusplanet.net www.theavensgallery.com Established in 1980, the Avens Gallery features original works by both established and up-andcoming artists from the local area and across the West. The gallery prides itself on highlighting outstanding, and frequently changing, displays of paintings, glass sculpture, clay, wood, metal and bronze. Open daily 11 am - 5 pm with extended summer and Christmas hours. THE EDGE GALLERY 612 Spring Creek Drive, Canmore, AB T1W 0C7 T. 403-675-8300 theedgegallery@shaw.ca www.edgegallery.ca In the gallery: ongoing exhibitions of historical paintings and prints to contemporary, abstract works. In the frame shop: experienced staff with 25 years experience offers a wide selection of frames for mirrors, objects, needlework, paintings and prints, specializing in the handling and care of original artwork. Tues to Sat 10 am -5:30 pm or by appointment. Public Gallery CANMORE LIBRARY GALLERY 950 8 Ave, Canmore, AB T1W 2T1 www.caag.ca This gallery, run by the Canmore Artists and Artisans Guild, has been in existence since 1980. There are seven CAAG member shows, seven private shows and several community and local schools shows per year. All media are represented in the gallery including fine arts, photography, textiles and sculpture. Mon to Thu 11 am - 8 pm, Fri to Sun 11 am - 5 pm. COCHRANE Commercial Galleries JUST IMAJAN ART GALLERY/STUDIO 3-320 1 St West,, Cochrane, AB T4C 1X8 T. 403-932-7040 jbarmstrong@xplornet.com www.justimajan.com This gallery features the work of Alberta artist Janet B. Armstrong and other local artisans. Visitors also enjoy the ambience of a cherrywood bar,

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snap@snapartists.com www.snapartists.com Established in 1982 as an independent, cooperatively-run fine art printshop, the SNAP (Society of Northern Alberta Print-artists) mandate is to promote, facilitate and communicate print and printrelated contemporary production. A complete print shop and related equipment are available to members. Ten exhibitions are scheduled each year. Tues to Sat noon - 5 pm. Commercial Galleries AGNES BUGERA GALLERY 12310 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5N 3K5 T. 780-482-2854 F. 780-482-2591 info@agnesbugeragallery.com www.agnesbugeragallery.com Agnes Bugera has been in the art gallery business since 1975, and is pleased to continue representing an excellent group of established and emerging Canadian artists. Spring and Fall exhibitions offer a rich variety of quality fine art including landscape, still life, and abstract paintings as well as sculpture and photography. New works by gallery artists are featured throughout the year. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm and by appointment.

Joel Sinclair and Robert Sinclair: CounterPoint, April 21 to May 8 2012, Scott Gallery, Edmonton

Joel Sinclair remembers growing up in his father, Robert W. Sinclair's studio, watching him paint. “My work is definitely inspired by his — and that's most evident in how we're both continually exploring the figure/ground relationship.” Both are elected members of the Canadian Society of Painters in Watercolour and often travel on sketching trips together, but this exhibition, CounterPoint, is the first time their work has been shown together. The title is derived from music, and refers to harmonious difference. Joel explains, “My exploration and journey is primarily expressed through texture and brush stroke, while his is expressed through more subtle value shifts and masterful gradations of tone.” Both Sinclairs are part of a strong Alberta watercolour landscape tradition which writer Terry Fenton attributes to the legacy of artists who came to paint the Rockies: A. C. Leighton, Walter Phillips, and Illingworth Kerr. Joel Sinclair also paints with acrylic, “but watercolour is still my primary love as it embodies the dance…you have to be completely open and present to it — it's an ‘in the moment’ and fairly unforgiving medium. Unexpected things happen with watercolour, and you have to be willing to move with it and allow it to have it's own life and breathing space.” — Margaret Bessai ABOVE: Joel Sinclair, Sentinel, watercolour on paper, 2010, 15" X 22".

fireplace and vintage memorabilia. Commissions and special events welcome. Tues 1:30 pm - 5 pm; Wed to Fri 11 am - 5 pm; Sat 10 am - 5 pm; Sun noon - 4 pm. RUSTICA ART GALLERY #4-123 2 Ave West, PO Box 1267, Rustic Market Square, Cochrane, AB T4C 1B3 T. 403-851-5181 Toll Free: 1-866-915-5181 info@rusticagallery.com www.rusticagallery.com Housed in a rustic log building in downtown Cochrane this inviting gallery specializes in original artwork, sculpture and jewelry by local and Western Canadian artists including the Western Lights Group. Appraisal, framing, cleaning and restoration services available. Wed to Fri 10:30 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 10:30 am - 5 pm. DRUMHELLER ATELIERO VERDA Box 1708, 40 3 Ave W, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0 T. 403-823-2455 jsveda@highout.com www.sveda-art.com The resident artist, Jacqueline Sveda is originally from Magog, Quebec, but has lived in Western Canada for the last 30 years. Her work is inspired by her surroundings, in which imagination plays a big role. She works in acrylic and mixed media flat art, as well as stone and wood carving. Guest artists participate in periodic exhibitions. Thurs to Sun 1:30 pm - 5 pm.

66 Galleries West Summer 2012

FINE PHOTOGRAPHY GALLERY Box 338, 20 3 Ave West, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0 T. 403-823-3686 Toll Free: 1-866-823-3686 mike@todorphoto.com www.todorphoto.com Owned and operated by Michael Todor, the gallery features pottery, watercolours, pen and ink sketches, pencil sketches and ammolite fine jewellery by Alberta artists — along with a permanent rotating display of Todor photographs. New shows with guest artists open on the second Saturday of each month. 10 am - 5:30 pm (May to Sep: Daily) (Sep to May: Mon to Sat). GREATER EDMONTON Artist-run Galleries HARCOURT HOUSE GALLERY 10215 112 St - 3rd Flr, Edmonton, AB T5K 1M7 T. 780-426-4180 F. 780-425-5523 harcourt@telusplanet.net www.harcourthouse.ab.ca The Arts Centre delivers a variety of services to both artists and the community, and acts as an essential alternative site for the presentation, distribution and promotion of contemporary art. The gallery presents 10 five-week exhibitions, from local, provincial and national artists, collectives and arts organizations as well as an annual members’ show. Mon to Fri 10 am - 5 pm, Sat noon - 4 pm. SNAP GALLERY 10123 121 St, Edmonton, AB T5N 3W9 T. 780-423-1492 F. 780-424-9117

ART BEAT GALLERY 26 St Anne St, St Albert, AB T8N 1E9 T. 780-459-3679 F. 780-459-3677 artbeat@telusplanet.net www.artbeat.ab.ca Located in the Arts and Heritage District of St. Albert, this is a family-owned business. New owner, Brigitte Strand continues to specialize in original artwork by Western Canadian artists. Paintings in all media, sculpture, pottery, and art glass. Home and corporate consulting. Certified picture framer. Part of St. Albert Artwalk - May through August. Tues to Fri 10 am - 6 pm, Thur to 8 pm, Sat 10 am - 5 pm. BEARCLAW GALLERY 10403 124 St, Edmonton, AB T5N 3Z5 T. 780-482-1204 F. 780-488-0928 info@bearclawgallery.com www.bearclawgallery.com Specializing in Canadian First Nations and Inuit art since 1975 from artists including Daphne Odjig, Norval Morrisseau, Roy Thomas, Maxine Noel, Jim Logan, George Littlechild, Jane Ash Poitras, Alex Janvier and Aaron Paquette. A wide variety of paintings, jade and Inuit soapstone carvings, and Navajo and Northwest coast jewellery. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm. CHRISTL BERGSTROM’S RED GALLERY 9621 Whyte (82) Ave , Edmonton, AB T6C 0Z9 T. 780-439-8210 F. 780-435-0429 christl@christlbergstrom.com www.christlbergstrom.com This storefront gallery and studio, in the Mill Creek area of Old Strathcona, features the work of Edmonton artist Christl Bergstrom, both recent and past work including still lifes, portraits, nudes and landscapes. Mon to Fri 11 am - 5 pm, Sat by appt. DAFFODIL GALLERY 10412 124 St, Edmonton, AB T5N 1R5 T. 780-760-1278 info@daffodilgallery.ca www.daffodilgallery.ca ”From England, with love” is the theme of Daffodil Gallery, fulfilling a dream of Karen Bishop and partner Rick Rogers to create an unpretentious gallery, welcoming to both experienced and new art collectors. It features established and emerging Canadian artists, representing a wide range of artistic styles — from traditional to contemporary. Tues to Sat 10:30 am - 5 pm. DOUGLAS UDELL GALLERY 10332 124 St, Edmonton, AB T5N 1R2 T. 780-488-4445 F. 780-488-8335 dug@douglasudellgallery.com www.douglasudellgallery.com In the art business in Edmonton since 1967 and Vancouver since 1986, Douglas Udell Gallery represents many of Canada’s leading contemporary artists as well as some of the leading young artists gaining momentum in the international playing field. The gallery also buys and sells in the secondary market in Canadian historical as well as international. Tues to Sat 9:30 am - 5:30 pm, Mon by appt. GALERIE PAVA 9524 87 ST, Edmonton, AB T6C 3J1 T. 780-461-3234 F. 780-461-4053 gisele@savacava.com www.savacava.com Created in 2011 by the Société francophone des arts visuels de l’Alberta, PAVA is committed to the promotion of contemporary art by emerging and established artists from the local, provincial

and national art scenes. Artists are encouraged to research projects reflecting cultural and social diversity. Juried themed exhibitions change monthly. Tues to Sat 10 am - 4 pm or by appointment at 780-461-3427. LANDO GALLERY 11130 - 105 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5H 0L5 T. 780-990-1161 mail@landogallery.com www.landogallery.com Edmonton’s largest commercial art gallery in the centre of Edmonton was established as Lando Fine Art in 1990 by private art dealer Brent Luebke. It continues to provide superior quality Canadian and international fine art, fine crafts, custom framing, art leasing, appraisals and collection management. The gallery also buys and sells Canadian and international secondary market fine art. Mon to Fri 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 10 am - 4:30 pm, or by appt. PETER ROBERTSON GALLERY 12304 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5N 3K5 T. 780-455-7479 info@probertsongallery.com www.probertsongallery.com Representing a roster of over 40 emerging, mid-career, and senior Canadian artists, this contemporary gallery space features a wide range of media and subject matter. Whether working with established collectors, or with those looking to purchase their first piece, Peter Robertson Gallery strives to inform, challenge, and retain relevance within the broader art community. Tues to Sat 11 am - 5 pm. PICTURE THIS! 959 Ordze Road, Sherwood Park, AB T8A 4L7 T. 780-467-3038 F. 780-464-1493 Toll Free: 1-800-528-4278 info@picturethisgallery.com www.picturethisgallery.com Picture This! framing & gallery have been helping clients proudly display their life treasures and assisting them to discover the beauty of the world through fine art since 1981. Now representing the Western Lights Artists Group and offering a diverse selection of originals by national and international artists. Mon to Fri 10 am - 6 pm, Thurs till 9 pm, Sat till 5 pm. @galleries_west

On April 28, the former Prairie Art Gallery was officially renamed the Art Gallery of Grande Prairie in anticipation of its re-opening in May. ROWLES & COMPANY LTD 108 LeMarchand Mansion, 11523 100 Ave, Edmonton, AB T5K 0J8 T. 780-426-4035 F. 780-429-2787 rowles@rowles.ca www.rowles.ca Relocated to LeMarchand Mansion. Features over 100 western Canadian artists in original paintings, bronze, blown glass, metal, moose antler, marble and soapstone. Specializing in supplying the corporate marketplace, the gallery offers consultation for Service Award Programs, and complete fulfillment for a wide variety of corporate projects. Open to the public. Mon to Fri 9 am - 5 pm, Sat - by appt. RR GALLERY 10219 106 St, Edmonton, AB T5J 1H5 T. 780-757-3463 F. 780-757-3463 robert@rrgallery.ca www.rrgallery.ca RR Gallery offers original paintings, pastels and photography by such artists as Anna Bereza-Piorkowska, Jonathan Havelock and, from Brazil, Litza Cohen. Partners Richard Lajczak and Robert Thomas also have more than twenty years experience in museum-grade printing, limited edition prints, drymounting and laminating, canvas stretching and custom picture framing. Mon to Fri 9 am - 5:30 pm, Thurs till 7 pm and Sat 10 am - 5 pm. SCOTT GALLERY 10411 124 St, Edmonton, AB T5N 3Z5 T. 780-488-3619 F. 780-488-4826 info@scottgallery.com www.scottgallery.com Established in 1986, the Scott Gallery features Canadian contemporary art representing over thirty established and emerging Canadian artists. Exhibits include paintings, works on paper including handpulled prints and photography, ceramics and sculpture. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm.

www.gallerieswest.ca

Public Galleries ALBERTA CRAFT COUNCIL GALLERY 10186-106 St, Edmonton, AB T5J 1H4 T. 780-488-5900 F. 780-488-8855 acc@albertacraft.ab.ca www.albertacraft.ab.ca Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only public gallery dedicated to fine craft presents four exhibitions in the main gallery each year. The Discovery Gallery features new works by ACC members. The gallery shop offers contemporary and traditional fine crafts including pottery, blown glass, jewelry, woven and quilted fabrics, home accessories, furniture and much more. All are hand-made by Alberta and Canadian craft artists. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5 pm; closed Sun. ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA 2 Winston Churchill Square, Edmonton, AB T5J 2C1 T. 780-422-6223 F. 780-426-3105 info@youraga.ca www.youraga.ca Founded in 1924, the Art Gallery of Alberta is an 85,000 square foot premier presentation venue for international and Canadian art, education and scholarship. The AGA is a centre of excellence for the visual arts in Western Canada, expressing the creative spirit of Alberta and connecting people, art and ideas. Tues to Fri 11 am - 7 pm, Sat & Sun 10 am - 5 pm. ART GALLERY OF ST ALBERT 19 Perron St, St Albert, AB T8N 1E5 T. 780-460-4310 F. 780-460-9537 ahfgallery@artsheritage.ca www.artsheritage.ca/gallery Located in the historic Banque dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hochelaga in St. Albert, the gallery features contemporary art, usually by Alberta artists, who show their painting, sculpture, video, quilts, glass and ceramics at both the provincial and national level. Monthly exhibitions, adult lectures and workshops, â&#x20AC;?Looking at Artâ&#x20AC;? school tours, art rental and sales plus a gallery gift shop. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Thurs till 8 pm. CENTRE Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ARTS VISUELS Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ALBERTA (CAVA) 9103 95 Ave, Edmonton, AB T6C 1Z4 T. 780-461-3427 F. 780-461-4053 gisele@savacava.com www.savacava.com The Centre is an eclectic mix of fine art and craft from the SociĂŠtĂŠâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 165 members. These Albertabased artists work in a variety of media including painting, sculpture, woodworking and other fine crafts including pottery, jewellery, woven and quilted fabric and much more. The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;galerieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; exhibitions change twice monthly. Mon to Fri 10 am - 6 pm, Sat 10 am - 5 pm. VAAA GALLERY 10215 112 St, 3rd Flr, Edmonton, AB T5K 1M7 T. 780-421-1731 F. 780-421-1857 Toll Free: 1-866-421-1731 info@visualartsalberta.com www.visualartsalberta.com Visual Arts Alberta Association is a non-profit Provincial Arts Service Organization (PASO) for the visual arts which celebrates, supports and develops Albertaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s visual culture. The gallery hosts an ongoing exhibition schedule. Wed to Fri 10 am - 4 pm, Sat noon - 4 pm. GRANDE PRAIRIE Public Gallery ART GALLERY OF GRANDE PRAIRIE 103-9839 103 Ave, Grande Prairie, AB T8V 6M7 T. 780-532-8111 info@prairiegallery.com www.prairiegallery.com Now partially open in the new, award-winning, Montrose Cultural Centre, the Prairie Art Gallery currently offers innovative programming in limited space. Construction is near completion for opening of the new gallery in May 2012. Mon to Sat 11 am - 6 pm, Sun 1 pm - 5 pm.

www.gallerieswest.ca

HIGH RIVER Commercial Galleries EVANESCENCE GALLERY AND ART STUDIO 61 Veterans Way, 8 Ave SE, High River, AB T1V 1E8 T. 403-796-4873 evanescencegallery@gmail.com www.evanescencegallery.com A welcome and stimulating destination, Evanescence offers art services, classes and original art and fine craft including pottery, painting and sculpture. Features changing exhibits by professional emerging and mid-career Alberta artists. Artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reception first Friday of each month. Tues to Thurs 10 am - 5 pm, Fri and Sat 10 am - 4:30 pm and (Labour Day to Victoria Day) Sun noon - 4:30 pm. PIKE STUDIOS AND GALLERY 70 9 Ave SE, High River, AB T1V 1L4 T. 403-652-5255 info@pikestudios.com www.pikestudios.com From their studios Bob and Connie Pike produce a wide range of art and fine craft. Bob works in metal, making gates, art boxes, tables and assorted architectural accents. Connie makes high temperature, reduction-fired porcelain â&#x20AC;&#x201D; from one-of-akind pieces to an extensive selection of functional pottery for everyday use. Studio tours available by appointment.

Jenny Clark

Brushfire Gallery in Jasperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Old Fire Hall An artist co-operative gallery

Claude Boocock

8JOUFS )PVST UP .BZ Open Sat & Sun, noon - 5 pm 4VNNFS )PVST Victoria Day to Thanksgiving Daily 10 am to 10 pm

Patricia Street at Elm Avenue Box 867, Jasper AB, T0E 1E0 780-852-1994 www.jasperartistsguild.com

JASPER Commercial Gallery MOUNTAIN GALLERIES AT THE FAIRMONT Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, #1 Old Lodge Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0 T. 780-852-5378 F. 780-852-7292 Toll Free: 1-888-310-9726 jasper@mountaingalleries.com www.mountaingalleries.com Located in The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Mountain Galleries is a favourite stop for collectors of Canadian art, featuring museum-quality paintings, sculpture and unique Inuit carvings. With three galleries, a combined total of 6080 square feet of exhibition space, and a state of the art warehouse/ studio in Jasper, they frequently host exhibitions, artist demonstrations and workshops. Daily 8 am - 10 pm. Cooperative Gallery BRUSHFIRE GALLERY JASPER ARTISTS GUILD Box 867, 414 Patricia (at Elm), Jasper, AB T0E 1E0 T. 780-852-1994 info@jasperartistsguild.com www.jasperartistsguild.com Since opening in 2003 as a collective of more than 30 artists, Brushfire Gallery ignites the senses with a compelling presentation of local and regional art â&#x20AC;&#x201D; an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;incendiaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; collection of oils, acrylics, watercolours, drawings, photo-based works, clay and metal sculptures. Located in the historic Old Firehall. May long wknd to Oct long wknd: daily noon - 8 pm; Jan to Apr: wknds only, noon - 5 pm. LACOMBE Commercial Gallery THE GALLERY ON MAIN 4910 50 Ave, 2nd Flr, Lacombe, AB T4L 1Y1 T. 403-782-3402 F. 403-782-3405 galmain@telus.net www.thegalleryonmain.com Located just off Hwy. 2 in the heart of Historic Downtown Lacombe, this gallery boasts the largest selection of original art in central Alberta. Representing over 60 Alberta artists, the galleryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s selection covers a wide variety of media. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm. LETHBRIDGE Commercial Gallery TRIANON GALLERY 104 5 St S - Upstairs, Lethbridge, AB T1J 2B2 T. 403-380-2787 F. 403-329-1654 Toll Free: 1-866-380-2787 trianon@savillarchitecture.com www.savillarchitecture.com Formerly the Trianon Ballroom (1930s-1960s), the gallery is an informal mix between a gallery and an architectural office. Its open space and philosophy allows for creative community responses. Exhibitions range from nationally-renowned artists to aspiring students. A second exhibition space, Le Petit Trianon is now open downstairs. Public Galleries GALT MUSEUM & ARCHIVES 502 1 St S ( 5 Ave S & Scenic Dr), Lethbridge,

Featuring Parkland Prairie Artists

A.A. Pfannmuller, 0WFSMPPLJOH Oil, 12â&#x20AC;? x 12â&#x20AC;?

WEST END GALLERY 12308 Jasper Ave, Edmonton, AB T5N 3K5 T. 780-488-4892 F. 780-488-4893 info@westendgalleryltd.com www.westendgalleryltd.com Established in 1975, this fine art gallery is known for representing leading artists from across Canada â&#x20AC;&#x201D; paintings, sculpture and glass art in traditional and contemporary styles. Exhibitions via e-mail available by request. Second location in Victoria. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm.

5002 - 50 Street Camrose, AB T4V 1R2 1-888-672-8401 www.candlerartgallery.com candler@syban.net Art Supplies, Picture Framing, Prints, Posters, Rocks & Crystals

Evanescence Gallery *>Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;Ă&#x152;Â&#x2C6;Â&#x2DC;}Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;*Â&#x153;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x152;iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x17E;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160; Â&#x2C6;Ă?i`Ă&#x160; i`Â&#x2C6;>Ă&#x160; Â&#x2C6;LĂ&#x20AC;iĂ&#x160;EĂ&#x160; Â&#x153;Â&#x153;Â&#x17D;Ă&#x160; Ă&#x20AC;Ă&#x152;Ă&#x192;Ă&#x160;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160; Â?>Ă&#x192;Ă&#x192;iĂ&#x192;

Pamela Thurston Small Matters

Opens Friday, May 4, 2012 Empty and Adrift, 2011 Oil on Canvas, 24â&#x20AC;? x 30â&#x20AC;?

61 - 8 Avenue SE, High River, Alberta Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;Ă&#x153;Â°iĂ&#x203A;>Â&#x2DC;iĂ&#x192;ViÂ&#x2DC;Vi}>Â?Â?iĂ&#x20AC;Ă&#x17E;Â°VÂ&#x153;Â&#x201C;Ă&#x160;UĂ&#x160;{Ă¤Ă&#x17D;Â°Ă&#x2021;Â&#x2122;Ă&#x2C6;Â°{nĂ&#x2021;Ă&#x17D; Galleries West Summer 2012 67

AB T1J 0P6 T. 403-320-3898 F. 403-329-4958 Toll Free: 1-866-320-3898 info@galtmuseum.com www.galtmuseum.com A vibrant gathering place meeting historical, cultural and educational needs, the Galt engages and educates its communities in the human history of southwestern Alberta by preserving and sharing collections, stories and memories that define collective identity and guide the future. Award-winning exhibits, events, programs. (May 15 - Aug 31) Mon to Sat 10 am - 6 pm; (Sep 1 - May 14) Mon to Sat 10 am - 4:30 pm; (year-round) Thurs till 9 pm, Sun 1 - 4:30 pm. Admission charge. @galleries_west

Danny Lineham and Mary MacArthur recently opened Siding 14 Gallery in Ponoka, AB to show their ’ancient book arts’ as well other artists.

HAND WAVE GALLERY

Calabash Soup by Anita Rocamora

May 11 - June 21, 2012 Bird House Eclectic Mary Romanuck, Pike Lake Wood /Mixed Media June 22 - July 26, 2012 Calabash Soup Anita Rocamora, Meacham Functional Sculptural Ceramics July 27 - August 16, 2012 30 Years at Hand Wave Gallery Invited Gallery Artists Mixed Media

Iced Fish House by Mary Romanuck

409 - 3 Ave., MEACHAM, SK Only 55 km east of Saskatoon

Phone: 306-376-2221 june.jacobs@handwave.ca www.handwave.ca

University of Lethbridge Art Gallery Caring for the Collection October 26 – December 24, 2012 Helen Christou Gallery

Curators: Juliet Graham and Miranda Grol Works from the University of Lethbridge Art Collection Reception: November 1, 4 – 6 pm

SOUTHERN ALBERTA ART GALLERY 601 3 Ave S, Lethbridge, AB T1J 0H4 T. 403-327-8770 F. 403-328-3913 info@saag.ca www.saag.ca One of Canada’s foremost public galleries, SAAG fosters the work of contemporary visual artists who push the boundaries of their medium. Regularly changing exhibitions are featured in three distinct gallery spaces. Learning programs, film screenings and special events further contribute to local culture. Gift Shop and a Resource Library. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun 1 pm - 5 pm. UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE ART GALLERY W600, Centre for the Arts, 4401 University Drive, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4 T. 403-329-2666 F. 403-382-7115 galleryinfo@uleth.ca www.uleth.ca/artgallery The gallery serves the campus community and general public with a permanent collection of more than 13,000 works; by presenting local and touring exhibitions; and by supporting research at all levels through publications and an on-line database. Main Gallery Mon to Fri 10 am - 4:30 pm, Thur till 8:30 pm. Helen Christou Gallery - Level 9 LINC, Daily 8 am - 9 pm. Special activities on website. MEDICINE HAT

RED DEER Public Gallery RED DEER MUSEUM + ART GALLERY 4525 47A Ave, Red Deer, AB T4N 6Z6 T. 403-309-8405 F. 403-342-6644 museum@reddeer.ca www.reddeermuseum.com The MAG combines elements of a museum and art gallery to inspire a passion for history and art while creating memorable experiences for visitors of all ages. The rotating exhibit schedule presents a glimpse of Red Deer’s historical and contemporary life, and brings world-class exhibitions to the city. In March 2013 the MAG will launch a permanent history exhibition ”The Place Between: Stories from the Heart of the Parkland”. Mon to Fri 10 am - 4:30 pm, wknd noon - 4:30 pm. @galleries_west

Red Deer Arts Council has partnered with Red Deer Pubic Library to operate the Kiwanis Gallery at Red Deer Public Library on lower level. WATERTON Commercial Gallery GUST GALLERY 112A Waterton Ave, Waterton Lakes, AB T0K 2M0 T. 403-859-2535 gustgal@telusplanet.net www.gustgallery.com The Gust Gallery embraces the art and landscapes of Southern Alberta reflected by the extraordinary talents of artists working in 2 and 3 dimensional mediums. Open daily mid-May to end-September.

SASKATCHEWAN GALLERIES ASSINIBOIA

ESPLANADE ART GALLERY 401 First St SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 8W2 T. 403-502-8580 F. 403-502-8589 mhmag@city.medicine-hat.ab.ca www.esplanade.ca This is a new home for the Medicine Hat Museum, Art Gallery and Archives, as well as a 700-seat theatre. The gallery accommodates a wide range of art exhibitions, including contemporary and historical, regional, national and international art. Exhibitions are often accompanied by receptions, talks and tours. Adults - $4, Youth and Student - $3, 6 & Under - Free, Family - $12, Thur Free for all ages. Mon to Fri 10 am - 5 pm; Sat, Sun and Hol noon - 5 pm.

Public Gallery SHURNIAK ART GALLERY 122 3 Ave W, PO Box 1178, Assiniboia, SK S0H 0B0 T. 306-642-5292 F. 306-642-4541 info@shurniakartgallery.com www.shurniakartgallery.com The gallery features its founder’s private collection of paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from around the world. Rotating exhibitions by invited artists. New Beginnings TeaRoom on premises. Admission free. Tues to Sat 10 am - 4:30 pm, Sun (Apr - Dec) 1 pm - 5 pm, closed public holidays and holiday weekends unless otherwise posted.

OKOTOKS

ESTEVAN

Public Gallery OKOTOKS ART GALLERY | AT THE STATION PO Box 20, 53 North Railway St, Okotoks, AB T1S 1K1 T. 403-938-3204 F. 403-938-8963 culture@okotoks.ca www.okotoksculture.ca The OAG reflects the creativity and dynamic energy of both the Town of Okotoks and the Foothills region. It presents an ongoing series of contemporary and historical art exhibitions. Recent exhibits include ”Alberta and the Group of Seven”, Lou Lynn’s ”Retro-active”, and ”Celebrity Icons” which featured six works by Andy Warhol. (Summer) Mon to Sat 10 am - 5 pm; Sun and hols noon - 5 pm; (Fall & Winter) Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm. (closed statutory holidays)

Public Gallery ESTEVAN ART GALLERY & MUSEUM 118 4 St, Estevan, SK S4A 0T4 T. 306-634-7644 F. 306-634-2940 eagm@sasktel.net www.eagm.ca This public gallery offers a free exchange of ideas and perspectives to reflect the rapidly expanding social and cultural diversity. With the collaboration of provincial and national institutions, the gallery seeks to make contemporary art accessible, meaningful, and vital to diverse audiences of all ages. Tues to Fri 8:30 am - 6 pm, Sat 1 pm - 4 pm.

PONOKA Commercial Gallery SIDING 14 GALLERY 5214 50 St, PO Box 4403, Ponoka, AB T4J 1S1 T. 403-790-5387

68 Galleries West Summer 2012

siding14@shaw.ca Siding 14 Gallery takes its name from early CPR days when Ponoka was a waterstop on the Edmonton-Calgary mainline. Today it features artwork from Western Canada, across the country and beyond. At its core is the studio of Mary MacArthur and Danny Lineham (Those Great Little Books) who are proud to showcase not only their own work in the ‘ancient book arts’, but that of other fine artists and artisans. Open 10 am - 5 pm most days.

MELFORT SHERVEN-SMITH ART GALLERY 206 Bemister Ave East, Box 310, Melfort, SK S0E 1A0 T. 306-752-4177 F. 306-752-5556 l.terry@cityofmelfort.ca www.kerryvickarcentre.ca Located 2 hours north of Saskatoon, the gallery is dedicated to the presentation and promotion of emerging local and provincial artists.

www.gallerieswest.ca

Since opening in 2010, the gallery has held an eclectic mix of exhibits With new exhibits each month, the gallery is always looking for artists interested in showcasing their work.Admission free. Mon to Fri 9 am - 5:30 pm. MOOSE JAW Commercial Gallery YVETTE MOORE FINE ART GALLERY 76 Fairford St W, Moose Jaw, SK S6H 1V1 T. 306-693-7600 F. 306-693-7602 info@yvettemoore.com www.yvettemoore.com Showcasing the award-winning works of Yvette Moore, her gallery features her original artwork, limited edition prints, framed artcards and art plaques along with the works of other artisans, shown amid the copper grandeur of the former 1910 Land Titles Office. Food service. Corner Fairford and 1 Ave. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5 pm. PRINCE ALBERT Public Gallery THE MANN ART GALLERY 142 12 St W, Prince Albert, SK S6V 3B8 T. 306-763-7080 F. 306-953-4814 curator@mannartgallery.ca www.mannartgallery.ca The Mann Art Gallery features a varied exhibition schedule promoting local, provincial and national artists, as well as curated exhibitions, lectures and workshops. It also houses a permanent collection of over 600 individual works from well-known provincial artists. Their education and professional development initiatives encourage public awareness and appreciation of the visual arts. Mon to Sat noon - 5 pm. REGINA Artist-run Gallery NEUTRAL GROUND 203-1856 Scarth St, Regina, SK S4P 2G3 T. 306-522-7166 F. 306-522-5075 neutralground@accesscomm.ca www.neutralground.sk.ca Neutral Ground supports contemporary art practices through both presentation and production activities. Its curatorial vision is responsive to its regional milieu in a translocal context. Programming emphasizes the contribution to new and experimental processes and supports inclusion and diversity. Tues to Sat 11 am - 5 pm and designated evening performances, openings, screenings. Commercial Galleries ASSINIBOIA GALLERY 2266 Smith St, Regina, SK S4P 2P4 T. 306-522-0997 F. 306-522-5624 mail@assiniboia.com www.assiniboia.com Opened in the late 1970s with the goal of establishing a gallery with a strong representation of regionally and nationally recognized artists reflecting a variety of style, subject and medium. The main focus is professional Canadian artists including Allen Sapp, Ted Godwin, W. H. Webb, Brent Laycock, Louise Cook and many more. Tues to Sat 9:30 am 5:30 pm. MYSTERIA GALLERY 2706 13 Ave, Regina, SK S4T 1N3 T. 306-522-0080 F. 306-522-5410 info@www.mysteria.ca www.mysteria.ca Mysteria Gallery is an artist-owned venue for established and emerging local artists. Explore diverse media in a modern context. Experience fine art and fine jewelry in a fresh atmosphere. Mon to Sat noon - 5:30 pm or by appt. NOUVEAU GALLERY 2146 Albert St, Regina, SK S4P 2T9 T. 306-569-9279 info@nouveaugallery.com www.nouveaugallery.com At Nouveau Gallery, formerly the Susan Whitney Gallery, look forward to works by many of Saskatchewan’s most recognized artists, the continuation of the Whitney Gallery’s vision plus a few surprises as Meagan Perreault puts her personal stamp on the new gallery. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, and by appt. TRADITIONS HANDCRAFT GALLERY 2714 13 Ave, Regina, SK S4T 1N3 T. 306-569-0199 traditions@sasktel.net www.traditionshandcraftgallery.ca Traditions exhibits the work of professional craft artisans who have successfully completed the exacting jury process of the Saskatchewan Craft Council.

www.gallerieswest.ca

The gallery carries a full range of fine craft media, including ceramics, wood, fibre, metal, glass, and jewellery. Mon to Sat 10 am - 5:30 pm. Public Galleries ART GALLERY OF REGINA Neil Balkwill Civic Arts Centre, 2420 Elphinstone St, Regina, SK S4T 3N9 T. 306-522-5940 F. 306-522-5944 info@artgalleryofregina.ca www.artgalleryofregina.ca Features contemporary art with an emphasis on Saskatchewan artists. Exhibitions change frequently. Access via 15 Ave and McTavish St. Mon to Thur 1 pm - 5 pm and 6:30 pm - 9 pm. Fri to Sun 1 pm - 5 pm. MACKENZIE ART GALLERY T C Douglas Building, 3475 Albert St, Regina, SK S4S 6X6 T. 306-584-4250 F. 306-569-8191 mackenzie@uregina.ca www.mackenzieartgallery.sk.ca Excellent collection of art from historical to contemporary works by Canadian, American and international artists. Major touring exhibits. Gallery Shop, 175-seat Theatre, Learning Centre and Resource Centre. Corner of Albert St and 23rd Ave, SW corner of Wascana Centre. Mon to Fri 10 am - 5:30 pm, Fri till 9 pm; Sun and hol noon - 5:30 pm. ROCKGLEN Commercial Gallery NEIL JONES STUDIO GALLERY 1006 4 St N, PO Box 382, Rockglen, SK S0H 3R0 T. 306-535-9079 neiljones@accesscomm.ca www.neiljoneswildelifeartist.com Self-taught wildlife artist, Neil Jones opens his studio gallery to the public to view his own work and that of other Saskatchewan artists. Painting in oils, his finely-painted images are rich with colour and action, capturing his passion for his subjects. His works have been featured by Ducks Unlimited and are held in both public and private collections throughout North America. Commissions welcome. Wed to Sun noon - 5 pm (Summer) or by appointment. SASKATOON Public Galleries ART PLACEMENT INC 228 3 Ave S, Saskatoon, SK S7K 1L9 T. 306-664-3385 F. 306-933-2521 gallery@artplacement.com www.artplacement.com Established in 1978, the gallery’s primary emphasis is on senior and mid-career Saskatchewan artists while also representing several established western Canadian painters and overseeing a number of artist estates. Presents a year round exhibition schedule alternating solo and group exhibitions. Centrally located downtown in the Traveller’s Block Annex. Tues to Sat 10 am - 4 pm. @galleries_west

Long-time Saskatoon art dealers Blaine and Joanna Forsberg have closed their Pacif'ic Gallery and are retiring from the business. COLLECTOR’S CHOICE ART GALLERY 625D 1 Ave N, Saskatoon, SK S7K 1X7 T. 306-665-8300 F. 306-664-4094 sales@collectorschoice.ca www.collectorschoice.ca Represents Saskatchewan and Canadian artists including Lou Chrones, Malaika Z Charbonneau, Julie Gutek, Cecelia Jurgens, Paul Jacoby, Valerie Munch, Jon Einnersen, Don Hefner, Reg Parsons, Bill Schwarz. The gallery offers a variety of contemporary paintings in watercolour, acrylic, oil, and mixed media and sculpture in bronze, stone and metal plus a collection of estate art. Tues - Fri 9:30 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 9:30 - 5 pm. DARRELL BELL GALLERY 317-220 3 Ave S, Saskatoon, SK S7K 1M1 T. 306-955-5701 darrellbellgallery@sasktel.net www.darrellbellgallery.com Exhibiting contemporary Canadian art with an emphasis on professional Saskatchewan artists, including David Alexander, Darrell Bell, Lee Brady, Megan Courtney Broner, Inger deCoursey, Kaija Sanelma Harris, Hans Herold, Ian Rawlinson and various

SKY

At the MacKenzie

John Noestheden

EARTH

Shuvinai Ashoona May 5 - August 19

Organized by the MacKenzie Art Gallery with the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, the Saskatchewan Arts Board, and the City of Regina Arts Advisory Committee.

Download the MyMacKenzie app to your iPhone or iPad. Get behind-the-scenes videos, exhibition photos and event info on the go!

mackenzieartgallery.ca 3475 Albert St. | Regina, SK The My MacKenzie app and the new mackenzieartgallery.ca are funded in part by the Canada Interactive Fund at Canadian Heritage.

Le MyMacKenzie app et le nouveau mackenzieartgallery.ca sont financés en partie dans le cadre du Fonds interactif du Canada de Patrimoine Canadien.

Galleries West Summer 2012 69

Located at the gateway to Grasslands National Park in a land of rolling hills, rugged coulees and steep ravines centred on the Frenchman River Valley, Grasslands Gallery shows original art and craft by some of Saskatchewan’s finest artists, inspired by the Grasslands experience. May to Sept: Tues to Thurs 11 am - 5 pm, Fri - Sat noon - 5 pm; see website or call for seasonal hours.

MANITOBA GALLERIES BRANDON

Paper Doll, March 30 to June 10, Mendel Art Gallery, Saskatoon

Rare, hand-drawn dolls created by a young Sylvia Plath are featured in Paper Doll. Curated by Anne Koval from the Owens Art Gallery in New Brunswick, the exhibition explores links between the realm of play and the construction of gender in the work of Cindy Sherman, Cybèle Young, Barb Hunt, Anna Torma, Jeannie Thib, Ed Pien, and Lynne Yamamoto. Play is a fundamental mode of learning and creative exploration — and examining the content of play can reveal much about a culture. Researching Plath at the Lilly Archive, Koval saw in the poet’s early diaries (from1945 to 1947) a pantheon of femininity, writing and drawings, creative play which shaped the poet, informing her mature works. Later, her 1965 collection, Ariel, gave voice to a generation, earning a Pulitizer Prize. The works in Paper Doll use similar strategies of play and humble materials to examine the female and the feminine — witty paper miniatures by Cybèle Young, lush embroidery by Ana Torma, fluttering paper-chains by Lynne Yamamoto. Cindy Sherman’s early Super-8 film Doll Clothes (1975) transforms the artist into a paper doll. Jeannie Thib and Barb Hunt visually reference feminine, patterned fabric, but work in cut steel, contrasting perceived fragility with material strength. Ed Pien’s Revel (2011), is an ethereal, nearly invisible labyrinth. A curtain cut from clear mylar creates a spiral path leading into a central area in which a web of nylon threads suspends a cluster of tiny model houses, anchored to rough-hewn stones on the floor. The shadow on the wall behind reveals the substance of the installation, dancing shadows and a ghost of a girl playing with the dream houses. — Margaret Bessai ABOVE: Barb Hunt, (l to r) Lace Dress, 1995; Small Dresses, 1994; Orchid Dress, 1993, all: plasma-cut cold-rolled steel. Inuit artists. Media include painting, sculpture, textiles, jewellery, glass and ceramics. Rotating solo and group shows year-round. Tues to Sat noon - 4 pm or by appointment.

exhibitions from other Canadian galleries. Daily 9 am - 9 pm. Admission free.

ROUGE GALLERY 200-245 3 Ave S, Saskatoon, SK S7K 1M4 T. 306-955-8882 wandau@rougegallery.ca www.rougegallery.ca Now located in the Glengarry Building in the heart of downtown. Rouge Gallery is dedicated to the presentation and promotion of emerging as well as established Canadian artists. Tues to Fri 10 am - 5 pm, Sat noon - 5 pm.

Public Gallery ART GALLERY OF SWIFT CURRENT 411 Herbert St E, Swift Current, SK S9H 1M5 T. 306-778-2736 F. 306-773-8769 k.houghtaling@swiftcurrent.ca www.artgalleryofswiftcurrent.org AGSC is a public art gallery featuring exhibitions of regional, provincial, and national works of visual art. Contact the gallery to arrange guided tours. See something to think about — visit your public art gallery. Mon to Wed 1 - 5 pm and 7 - 9 pm, Thurs to Sun 1 - 5 pm. Closed between exhibitions, statutory holidays, and Sundays in Jul and Aug. Admission free.

Public Gallery MENDEL ART GALLERY 950 Spadina Cres E, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A8 T. 306-975-7610 F. 306-975-7670 mendel@mendel.ca www.mendel.ca The gallery is charged with collecting, exhibiting, and maintaining works of art and the development of public understanding and appreciation of art. Exhibitions of contemporary and historical art by local, national and international artists include those organised by Mendel curators and curatorial consortium members, as well as major touring

70 Galleries West Summer 2012

SWIFT CURRENT

VAL MARIE Commercial Gallery GRASSLANDS GALLERY Centre St and 1 Ave N, PO Box 145, Val Marie, SK S0N 2T0 T. 306-298-7782 laureenmarchand@sasktel.net www.grasslandsgallery.com

Public Gallery ART GALLERY OF SOUTHWESTERN MANITOBA 710 Rosser Ave, Suite 2, Brandon, MB R7A 0K9 T. 204-727-1036 F. 204-726-8139 director.agsm@mts.net www.agsm.ca Tracing its roots back to 1890, the gallery’s mission is to lead in visual art production, presentation, promotion and education in western Manitoba. Its focus is on contemporary art while respecting local heritage and culture. Mon to Sat 10 am - 6 pm, Thurs till 9 pm. GIMLI Commercial Gallery MERMAID’S KISS GALLERY PO Box 509, 85 Fourth Ave, Gimli, MB R0C 1B0 T. 204-642-7453 lakemail@mts.net www.mermaidskissgallery.com Just an hour’s scenic drive north from Winnipeg the gallery presents an eclectic mix of original art in painting, pottery, photography, raku, fibre and jewellery. Established and emerging artists take their inspiration from the lake and surrounding areas. Also offering archival giclée printing, photo restoration, certified custom conservation framing. Mon, Thur to Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun noon - 4 pm. PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE Public Gallery PORTAGE & DISTRICT ARTS CENTRE GALLERY & GIFT SHOP 11 2 St NE, Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 1R8 T. 204-239-6029 pdac@mts.net www.portageartscentre.ca The gallery features a schedule of diverse exhibitions showcasing the works of local, regional and national artists. The gift shop offers art supplies as well as a mix of original art including pottery, stained glass, photography, wood turning, books and paintings by local and regional artists. Located within the William Glesby Centre. Tues to Sat 11 am - 5 pm. SELKIRK, MB Cooperative Gallery GWEN FOX GALLERY 101-250 Manitoba Ave, Selkirk, MB R1A 0Y5 T. 204-482-4359 gwenfoxg@mts.net www.gwenfoxgallery.com Built in 1907 and twice rescued from demolition, the ‘old Post Office’ is now the Selkirk Community Arts Centre and home to the Gwen Fox Gallery witn over 100 members. The gallery exibits the works of individual members monthly through the year with June and September reserved for member group shows. Tues to Sat 11 am - 4 pm. WINNIPEG Commercial Galleries BIRCHWOOD ART GALLERY 6-1170 Taylor Ave, Grant Park Festival, Winnipeg, MB R3M 3Z4 T. 204-888-5840 F. 204-888-5604 Toll Free: 1-800-822-5840 info@birchwoodartgallery.com www.birchwoodartgallery.com Specializing in originals, prints, sculptures and bronzes, featuring a large selection of Manitoba and international artists. They also provide conservation custom framing, art restoration and cleaning, and home and office art consultation. Original commissions available on request. Mon to Thurs 10 am - 6 pm, Fri 10 am - 5 pm, Sat 10 am - 4 pm or by appointment. CRE8ERY GALLERY & STUDIO 2-125 Adelaide St (cor William), Winnipeg, MB R3A 0W4 T. 204-944-0809 jordan@cre8ery.com

www.cre8ery.com Nestled in the heart of Winnipeg’s Arts District, cre8ery gallery is committed to the celebration of emerging as well as established artists. cre8ery takes pride in uncovering artistic gems of all media and genres and invites patrons of the arts to come discover their next art treasure. Tues to Sat noon - 6 pm; Mon & Thurs 6 pm - 10 pm. LOCH GALLERY 306 St. Mary’s Road, Winnipeg, MB R2H 1J8 T. 204-235-1033 F. 204-235-1036 info@lochgallery.com www.lochgallery.com Established in 1972, the Loch Gallery specializes in building collections of quality Canadian, American, British and European paintings and sculpture. It represents original 19th and 20th century artwork of collectable and historic interest, as well as a select group of gifted professional artists from across Canada including Ivan Eyre, Leo Mol, Peter Sawatzky, Anna Wiechec, Philip Craig and Carol Stewart. Mon to Fri 9 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 9 am - 5 pm. MARTHA STREET STUDIO 11 Martha St, Winnipeg, MB R3B 1A2 T. 204-779-6253 F. 204-944-1804 printmakers@mts.net www.printmakers.mb.ca Martha Street Studio is a community-based printmaking facility offering equipment, facilities and support to produce, exhibit, and disseminate cutting-edge, print-based works. There are classes in both traditional and digital printing processes, and ongoing outreach programs. The gallery facility offers visual artwork from emerging and master artists. Mon to Fri 10 am - 5 pm. MAYBERRY FINE ART 212 McDermot Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0S3 T. 204-255-5690 bill@mayberryfineart.com www.mayberryfineart.com Located in Winnipeg’s historic Exchange District, the gallery represents a select group of gifted Canadian artists including Joe Fafard, Wanda Koop, John MacDonald and Robert Genn. With over 30 years experience, they also specialize in historic Canadian and European works of collectible interest. Regular exhibitions feature important early Canadian art as well as gallery artists. Tues to Fri 10 am - 6 pm, Sat 10 am - 5 pm. WAREHOUSE ARTWORKS 222 McDermot Ave, Winnipeg, MB R3B 0S3 T. 204-943-1681 F. 204-942-2847 sasaki@mts.net www.warehouseart.mb.ca A Winnipeg fixture for more than 25 years, the gallery presents original art, in a variety of media, mainly from Manitoba artists. They also offer limited edition prints and reproductions along with a major framing facility. Mon to Thur 9 am - 5:30 pm, Sat to 5 pm. WAYNE ARTHUR GALLERY 186 Provencher Blvd, Winnipeg, MB R2H 0G3 T. 204-477-5249 www.waynearthurgallery.com Artist Wayne Arthur and wife Bev Morton opened the Wayne Arthur Sculpture & Craft Gallery in 1995. After Wayne passed away, Bev moved the gallery to Winnipeg and together with new husband, Robert MacLellan, has run the Wayne Arthur Gallery since 2002. Some of Wayne’s drawings are available for purchase as well as the creations of more than 60 Manitoba artists, working in painting, print-making, mixed media, sculpture, pottery, jewellery, glass and photography. Tues to Sat 11 am - 5 pm. WOODLANDS GALLERY 535 Academy Road, Winnipeg, MB R3N 0E2 T. 204-947-0700 info@woodlandsgallery.com www.woodlandsgallery.com Located among the boutiques and restaurants of Academy Road, Woodlands Gallery represents an engaging selection of contemporary works by emerging and established Canadian artists. In addition to original paintings, the gallery offers handmade jewellery, ceramics, blown glass and monoprints as well as professional custom framing. Tues to Fri 10 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 10 am - 5 pm. Cooperative Gallery MEDEA GALLERY 132 Osborne St in The Village, Winnipeg, MB R3L 1Y3 T. 204-453-1115 medea@mts.net www.medeagallery.ca This artist-run cooperative was established in 1976, and features traditional and contemporary original fine art by Manitoba artists, including oils, watercol-

www.gallerieswest.ca

ors, acrylics, pastels, mixed media, intaglio and serigraph prints, ceramics, sculpture and photography. Rental plan and gift certificates available. Open Mon to Sat 10:30 am - 5 pm, Sun 1 pm - 4pm. Public Gallery WINNIPEG ART GALLERY 300 Memorial Blvd, Winnipeg, MB R3C 1V1 T. 204-786-6641 communications@wag.ca www.wag.ca Manitoba’s premiere public gallery founded in 1912, has nine galleries of contemporary and historical art with an emphasis on work by Manitoba artists. Rooftop restaurant, gift shop. Tues to Sun 11 am - 5 pm, Thurs til 9 pm. WINNIPEG BEACH Commercial Gallery FISHFLY GALLERY 18 Main St, Winnipeg Beach, MB R0C 3G0 T. 204-389-5661 ctordon@mts.net www.fishflygallery.com Opened in 2002, Fishfly Gallery houses an eclectic and vibrant collection of authentic prairie-focused art and fine craft. Over 50 established and emerging artists contribute to an exciting, ever-growing and changing year-round display. Located at the Boardwalk in downtown Winnipeg Beach. Wheelchair accessible. Daily during July and August; after Labour Day, Fri to Sun, or by appt.

NORTHERN TERRITORIES GALLERIES WHITEHORSE

S�� A�� G�� Founded in 2005

Commercial Gallery COPPER MOON GALLERY 3 Glacier Rd, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5S7 T. 867-633-6677 contact@coppermoongallery.com www.coppermoongallery.com Just off the beaten path in a setting high on the banks of the Yukon River, Copper Moon Gallery boosts over 3500 sq ft of original Northern art — paintings to pottery, jewellery, carvings and beading. Monthly exhibitions in the solo show room. In winter there are regular music events. Check website for details. Only ten min south of town on the Alaska Hwy. (Summer)Daily noon - 7 pm, (Winter) Fri to Sun noon - 7 pm. Public Gallery YUKON ARTS CENTRE PUBLIC ART GALLERY 300 College Dr, PO Box 16, Whitehorse, YT Y1A 5X9 T. 867-667-8485 gallerydirector@yac.ca www.yukonartscentre.com/gallery.htm

An outstanding collec�on of Canadian and Interna�onal art. Rota�ng exhibi�ons by Saskatchewan ar�sts.

Special Saskatchewan heritage exhibi�on: June 12 - December 30, 2012 ADMISSION FREE: Tues to Sat: 10 – 4:30 pm; Sun (Apr – Dec) 1 – 5 pm Call for holiday hours 122 – 3rd Ave West, ASSINIBOIA, SK • 306-642-5292 info@shurniakartgallery.com • www.shurniakartgallery.com Located one hour south of Moose Jaw.

estevan art gallery & museum

Sleep of Reason, March 22 to May 19, Yukon Arts Centre, Whitehorse

Curator Jennifer Cane has pulled together a selection of work by young Canadian and American artists, many with ties to the north, that collectively presents a fever-dream of creative imaginings. Artists including Joseph Tisiga, Shuvinai Ashoona, Sonja Ahlers, Rosemary Scanlon, Nadia Moss, Jen Weih, Jeff Ladouceur, Jim Holyoak, and David Horvitz present work that is alternately playful and disturbing, depicting the “artist as dreamer.” Cane has derived her concept from the Francisco Goya work The Sleep of Reason Produces Monsters, an etching of a sleeping man attacked by winged bat/ owl creatures. Critics have interpreted the work as an example of the artist’s unleashing of emotion, imagination, and the nightmares that follow. For Cane, Goya’s work was about social criticism of corruption and oppression as much as it was about flights of imagination, and she sought the same layers of meaning in the contemporary work chosen for this show. Rosemary Scanlon’s watercolours are dotted alternately with menacing creatures, lost memories, and comical effects, all blending together into a strange, swirling world. Jim Holyoak creates similar dream-like magical places, populated by windblown flora and deranged-looking animals. Shuvinai Ashoona’s drawings are deceptive — appearing at first to be typical northern scenes, until you look closer and discover the odd-shaped objects hidden in the intense detail. — Jill Sawyer ABOVE; Installation view (work by Jeff Ladouceur, Nadia Moss), Sleep of Reason, Yukon Arts Centre, Whitehorse. www.gallerieswest.ca

September 13 - October 26, 2012

Art Auction: Saturday, October 20, 2012 Tickets: $75/person All proceeds to go to the maintenance, development and promotion of our Andrew King collection, the largest public collection of his works in Canada.

118 - 4th street, Estevan, SK │(P) 306 634 7644│www.eagm.ca Galleries West Summer 2012 71

Handling Art with Care

DIRECTORY Of Art-related Products and Services To advertise, call 403-234-7097 or 1-866-697-2002

ARTIST STUDIOS/ EVENTS ARTISTS’ STUDIOS

Local, National & International Services: Packing & Crating Transportation & Logistics Collection Management Asset Management Storage Climate Controlled Facility Armstrong Fine Art Services Ltd. Supporting the art world.

630 Secretariat Court, Mississauga, ON, L5S 2A5 T: 905.670.3600 F: 905.670.0764 art@shipfineart.com l www.shipfineart.com

Lorraine Thorarinson Betts Studio & Gallery Victoria

250.391.9590 call ahead to visit

witness, oil on paper

lorrainebetts.com

MISA NIKOLIC Edmonton, AB burnia@shaw.ca www.members.shaw.ca/burnia Misa Nikolic is an artist and writer based in Edmonton. Misa’s painting and photography address the historied nature of architecture. First known for his hard-edge style, he began to pursue realism in his post-graduate work. In recent years, he has also made the switch to oils from acrylics. View his work online. IRMA SOLTONOVICH URBANART STUDIO Victoria, BC T. 250-812-2705 irmasoltonovich@hotmail.com www.soltonovich.com This Victoria artist specializes in abstract landscapes and seascapes. Her acrylic works may be seen at Greater Victoria Art Gallery and Gallery at Mattick’s Farm, Victoria. She welcomes commissions and is a teaching associate at Art School Victoria (website of same name). For more information contact her directly and arrange to visit her home studio.

PRODUCTS AND SERVICES ART AUCTIONS

HODGINS ART AUCTIONS LTD 5240 1A St SE, Calgary, AB T2H 1J1 T. 403-252-4362 F. 403-259-3682 kevin.king@hodginsauction.com www.hodginsauction.com Hodgins is one of western Canada’s largest and longest running auction companies dedicated to quality fine art. They hold catalogued auctions of Canadian and international fine art every May and November. In addition, appraisal services are offered for estate settlement, insurance, matrimonial division and other purposes. Individual and corporate consignments of artworks for sale are always welcome.

KAMILA & NEL ART GALLERY 768 Menawood Pl, Victoria, BC V8Y 2Z6 T. 250-294-5711 NelKwiatkowska@Picture2Portrait.net www.Picture2Portrait.net Interested in commissioning an experienced and internationally-recognized artist to create an ageless fine art gift? Portraits, architecture, animals, landscapes and any other subject of interest to you could be captured and transformed in a creative way. Paintings can be done from photos or a session arranged at the studio. Now located in Victoria.

LANDO ART AUCTIONS 11130 105 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T5H 0L5 T. 780-990-1161 F. 780-990-1153 mail@landoartauctions.com www.landoartauctions.com They hold a minimum of three catalogued auctions a year of Canadian and international fine art. Individual and corporate consignments welcome. Appraisals for insurance, donation, estate settlement, family division and other purposes. Call or email for a confidential appointment. Mon to Fri 10 am 5:30 pm, Sat 10 am - 4:30 pm, or by appt.

LORRAINE THORARINSON BETTS Victoria, BC T. 250-391-9590 lorrainebetts@shaw.ca www.lorrainebetts.com An abstract artist, Lorraine works in mixed media/monotype and painting on paper and canvas from her studio in Metchosin, on the west shore of Victoria, BC. Whether figurative or abstract, her unique imagery carries a sense of story through texture, line and a celebration of colour. Studio visits are always welcome - please call ahead.

VEVEX CORPORATION 955 East Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1R9 T. 604-254-1002 F. 866-883-3899 info@vevex.com www.vevex.com Vevex produces made-to-order crates for shipping and storing fine art. Computer-generated estimates and engineered manufacturing ensure fast quotes and prompt delivery. A range of designs offers choice for commercial, collector and institutional needs. Certified for worldwide export. Supplier of museum-quality crates to the Vancouver Art Gallery.

WENDY SKOG ABSTRACT ART GALLERY Victoria, BC T. 250-516-1453 wendy@wendyskog.com www.wendyskog.com Skog’s work is a wordless meditation expressed as energy moving in space. The paintings are an expression of the spirit, energy, confusion, surprise, excitement, tragedy, unpredictability, drama, and innocence collectively experienced through lifetimes. The work draws from the vulnerability and consciousness gained through these experiences without their graphic portrayal.

ARTISTS REPRESENTATIVE

EMOTESART Winnipeg, MB T. 204-294-6324 jacqueline@emotesart.com www.emotesart.com Representing select contemporary Canadian artists including Shirley Elias and Victoria Block.

ART TOURS

SOUTH WEST QUEST FOR SASKATCHEWAN ART AND HISTORY FESTIVAL T. 306-299-4445 southwestquest@gmail.com

72 Galleries West Summer 2012

www.ArtandHistoryQuest.com SW QUEST is now a three-day FESTIVAL July 20, 21 and 22 in Eastend, SK. FRIDAY: Art market 10 am - noon; Luminary Workshop 4:30 pm - 6 pm; Luminary Parade following fireworks. SATURDAY: Quick Draw at High Noon on Main Street; Poet Laureate readings, award winning Golden Sheaf films, music jam. SUNDAY: Writing workshop. EVERYDAY: workshops, demonstrations, galleries, talks and Art & History Walk.

ART CRATING

ART FRAMING

ART EFFECTS CREATIVE FRAMING 1-938 Centre St SE, High River, AB T1V 1E7 T. 403-652-4550 arteffects@telus.net www.arteffects.ca Established in 1998, Art Effects offers a combined 30+ years of experience in custom framing and art consultations. Owners MJ Getkate and Barry Deines take pride in their creative design, craftsmanship and attention to detail. In addition to state-of-theart equipment and over 1000 mouldings to choose from, they now offer a ‘virtual’ preview of framing options on a large screen TV monitor. Wed to Fri 9 am - 5 pm, Sat 9 am - 3 pm or by appointment. FRAMED ON FIFTH 1207 5 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2N 0S1 T. 403-244-3688 info@framedonfifth.com www.framedonfifth.com Owner Hannah White is an experienced custom picture framer — and an artist in her own right. Her specialized frame shop offers original art framing at reasonable prices for artists, collectors and the general public. Located in eclectic Kensington with ample on-street parking. Tues to Fri 10 am - 6 pm, Sat 10 am - 5 pm.

www.gallerieswest.ca

JARVIS HALL FINE FRAMES 617 11 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2R 0E1 T. 403-206-9942 jarvis@jhff.ca www.jhff.ca Jarvis Hall Fine Frames is a full service frame shop offering all levels of custom framing from conservation to museum grade. Frames can be chosen from a wide variety of manufacturers or can be designed, carved and gilded by hand. They also offer a variety of gallery frames for artists. Tues to Sat 10 am - 5 pm and by appointment. Art Gallery Websites ART IN CANADA T. 403-336-1313 lynda@artincanada.com www.artincanada.com For artists who know they need a website, but don’t know where to start, Art In Canada — a professional web consulting and design company — has been marketing artists and art galleries online since 1999. Websites are designed for easy self-administration by artists themselves. Call Lynda Baxter to learn more and get started.

ART INSTALLATION

ON THE LEVEL ART INSTALLATIONS T. 403-263-7226 info@onthelevelart.ca www.onthelevelart.ca A fully insured, full service fine arts handling company with 24 years experience providing consulting, design and installation service throughout western Canada.

CLASSIC GALLERY FRAMING INC 3376 Sexsmith Road, Kelowna, BC V1X 7S5 T. 250-765-6116 F. 250-765-6117 Toll Free: 1-800-892-8855 info@classicgalleryframing.com www.classicgalleryframing.com High quality mouldings, liners and liner profiles are produced by utilizing the most efficient manufacturing processes combined with the care and detail that comes with creating handcrafted products. All steps of production are done inside their factory. The full range of products may be previewed online and are available through most fine art dealers and framers. INGLEWOOD ART SUPPLIES 1006 9 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 0S7 T. 403-265-8961 inglart@telusplanet.net www.inglewoodart.com Store claims best selection and prices in Calgary on pre-stretched canvas and canvas on the roll. Golden Acrylics and Mediums with everyday prices below retail. Volume discounts on the complete selection of Stevenson Oils, Acrylics and Mediums. Other name-brand materials, brushes, drawing supplies, easels, an extensive selection of paper and more. Mon to Fri 9 am - 6 pm, Sat 10 am - 5 pm, Sun noon - 5 pm.

ART REPRODUCTION

KENSINGTON ART SUPPLY 130 10 St NW, Calgary, AB T2N 1V3 T. 403-283-2288 info@kensingtonartsupply.com www.kensingtonartsupply.com Now in a new, bigger space featuring an expanded selection of quality fine art supplies including more paints, brushes, easels, paper and canvas. Also carry over 500 titles of art instruction books, encaustic paints, and an enhanced airbrush section. Friendly, knowledgeable staff. Art classes next door. Discounts available. Mon to Thurs 10 am - 8 pm, Fri, Sat 10 am - 6 pm, Sun & Hol 11 am - 5 pm.

ART SHIPPING

MONA LISA ARTISTS’ MATERIALS 1518 7 St SW, Calgary, AB T2R 1A7 T. 403-228-3618 monalisa@nucleus.com www.monalisa-artmat.com Welcome to one of Western Canada’s largest fine art supply retailers. Established in 1959, Mona Lisa provides excellent customer service combined with a broad spectrum of products and technical knowledge. Clients from beginner to professional, find everything they need to achieve their artistic goals. Volume discounts and full-time student and senior discounts available. Mon - Fri 8 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 9 am - 5 pm.

ART-MASTERS.NET 1608 29 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2T 1M5 T. 403-229-2953 info@art-masters.net www.art-masters.net Specializing in professional, archival, custom giclée printing for more than 14 years with complete inhouse service, they cater to over 300 discriminating artists, galleries, and art publishers locally and around the world. Expertise in colour correction creates the rich colours, textures and high definition of original artwork, and printing is done with special UV inhibiting inks and varnishes. ARMSTRONG FINE ART SERVICES LTD. 630 Secretariat Court, Mississauga, ON L5S 2A5 T. 905-670-3600 F. 905-670-0764 Toll Free: 1-866-670-3600 art@shipfineart.com www.shipfineart.com Armstrong Fine Art Services Ltd. is part of the Armstrong Group of Companies, with over 40 years of professional experience in packing, crating, storing and shipping fine art, antiques and antiquities across Canada and around the world. They have the people, services and facilities to assure the handling of a single piece of art, or an entire collection. Email for details about their cross-country and inter-USA shuttles.

ART STORAGE AND APPRAISALS

LEVIS FINE ART AUCTIONS, APPRAISALS & ART STORAGE 1739 10 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3C 0K1 T. 403-541-9099 mail@levisauctions.com www.levisauctions.com From a single item to a complete collection, Levis can safely store artwork. The company offers professional and knowledgeable staff, a safe and confidential environment, a thorough security system, controlled temperature and constant on-site presence. Costs are based on a rate of $10.00 per cubic foot per month. For larger collections volume rates are available.

ART SUPPLIES

ARTISTS EMPORIUM 1610 St James St, Winnipeg, MB R3H 0L2 T. 204-772-2421 artists@artistsemporium.net www.artistsemporium.net A Canadian based company supplying highest quality products since 1977 with over 100,000 items offered in a 12,000 square feet retail space. The fun-friendly atmosphere extends from the free Saturday morning art classes, through the extensive art library and spinning the roulette wheel at their annual Artists Open House. They are committed to maintaining a high level of inventory at competitive prices while continually expanding product lines. Mon to Thur 9 am - 6 pm, Fri til 9 pm, Sat 9 am - 6 pm, Sun noon - 4 pm.

www.gallerieswest.ca

Auction - May 28 & 29

Illingworth Kerr QU’APPELLE VALLEY AT KENNELL; 1976 oil on canvas, 18 x 24 in.

OPUS FRAMING & ART SUPPLIES T. 604-435-9991 F. 604-435-9941 Toll Free: 1-800-663-6953 info@opusframing.com www.opusframing.com Opus has stores in Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna, North Vancouver, and Langley, plus online shopping and mail order service. They offer an extensive selection of fine art materials and quality framing supplies. Check them out online, or drop by for some inspiration. They also produce an e-newsletter full of sales, art news and articles, and provide ëhow to’ handouts and artist demos. Western Canada’s favourite artists’ resource. SKETCH ARTIST SUPPLIES (FORMERLY STUDIO TODOROVIC) 1713 - 2 St NW, Calgary, AB T2M 2W4 T. 403-450-1917 sales@sketchcalgary.ca www.sketchcalgary.ca Sketch offers framing and carries Copic sketch markers (full selection), sketchbooks, J. Herbin calligraphy inks, Brause nibs, Faber-Castell products, Moleskine, Rhodia, Golden acrylics & mediums, M. Graham oils & watercolours, Gotrick canvas and more. Student and senior discounts. Just north of TransCanada in Mount Pleasant opposite Balmoral School. Free parking. Mon to Fri 10 am - 6 pm, Sat 11 am - 6 pm. THE GALLERY/ART PLACEMENT INC. 228 3 Ave S (back lane entrance), Saskatoon, SK S7K 1L9 T. 306-664-3931 supplies@artplacement.com www.artplacement.com Professional artists, University art students, art educators and weekend artists rely on The Gallery/Art Placement’s art supply store for fine quality materials and equipment at reasonable prices. A constantly expanding range of materials from acrylics, oils and watercolours, to canvas, brushes, specialty paper, soapstone and accessories. Mon to Sat 9 am - 5:30 pm.

Henry George Glyde COLDSTREAM BC, NEAR VERNON watercolour on paper, 11.5 x 15.5 in.

Quality Consignments Always Welcome Ongoing Auctions, Live and Online. Enquire about our gallery referral program.

hodginsauction.com

5240 1A St. SE Calgary AB T2H 1J1 ℡ 403 252 4362 art@hodginsauction.com Galleries West Summer 2012 73

BACK ROOM

LEONARD BROOKS (1911 – 2011)

Leonard Brooks, Yellow Moon, collage on canvas, c. 2002, 23.5” x 19.5”.

74 Galleries West Summer 2012

In self-exile from Canada and its diffident art scene, Leonard Brooks’ career proves that none of us know where our lives will take us. After an eventful early life, including a prolific creative sojourn during World War II, Brooks found himself in the sleepy mountain town of San Miguel de Allende north of Mexico City. Over more than six decades there, he would build a vibrant cultural community that welcomed expat artists from all over the world. Born in Enfield, England, Brooks and his family emigrated to Canada in 1913, but returned for two years during the First World War while his father was enlisted. Returning to Canada in 1918, Brooks’ formative years were often focused on art — hearing artist Arthur Lismer speak to a group about his work, the teenage Brooks decided he would become a painter. Brooks’ early work followed the popular sense of Canadian painting — landscapes and wilderness scenes, often in thinned-out watercolours. During the second war, he was commissioned to travel overseas as an official Naval painter, and he spent two years recording the aftermath of London bombing, and the daily lives of Canadian sailors. Returning to Toronto, he quickly tired of what he perceived to be the elitist and closed-off Canadian art scene. “Early in his career (Brooks’) resentment was aimed at the well-heeled curators running many of the museums and galleries, and the trust-fund artists he would meet who didn’t have to worry about sales,” Philip Fine wrote recently in the Globe and Mail. “Later, it was for art trends lapped up by the public and for those Canadians who preferred frozen wilderness over sun-scorched scenes on their national artists’ canvases.” Brooks took his veterans’ pay and set off from an indifferent Ontario, settling in San Miguel, which was a quiet, little-known backwater in 1947. Inexpensive and inspiring, the town and its culture fed him as a painter and as a musician (he had been playing violin since he was a child, and began giving lessons and organizing performances in Mexico). His work became saturated with light, and he was quickly won over by the medium of abstract collage. He and his wife Reva created an informal artists’ colony in Mexico that drew other artists, musicians, and writers, and the town maintains itself today as a magnet for English-speaking expat creative types. And the 60 years of happy exile can be found in Brooks’ work. This collage, one of his later works from about 2002 called Yellow Moon, is deeply evocative of the colour and vibrancy of Mexico. For Jill Peterson of Calgary’s Collector’s Gallery, it’s one of her favourites. The Gallery has been steadily building its collection of Brooks works, some for a show two years ago of work from a Toronto collector, and others (including this one) more recently acquired from the Brooks estate. “I remember in 1978 going to Mexico City to the modern art museum there, and seeing one of Leonard’s collages, and it just stuck in my head,” Peterson says. She adds that the collage work is an important element to Brooks collectors, who generally want to own work in each of the artist’s preferred media. The collages in particular are difficult to pinpoint, in terms of inspiration. Brooks travelled back and forth regularly between Mexico and Canada (in the early years, driving both ways), and he continued to paint Canadian scenes. But for Peterson, the rich colour in his more recent work places it firmly south. Fitting, then that when he died at 100 last November, Brooks was still painting in his beloved Mexico. — Jill Sawyer www.gallerieswest.ca

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