Colborne Art Gallery member artists are delighted to welcome 55 special guest artists at their inaugural Juried Show that runs from July 13 to Aug. 18.
The 18 members of the artist-run co-operative are involved in all aspects of the day-to-day running of the gallery, as well as creating the artwork for eight shows each year. For the Juried Show, members chose not to submit any of their own work but to reach out to artists in the local community and beyond to allow an opportunity for others to exhibit.
Guest curator James Campbell, executive director and curator of the Visual Arts Centre of Clarington, took on the challenge of reviewing 188 submitted works in order to select this collection. The exhibit will showcase an incredibly diverse range of media and styles, a tribute to the talents of artists from our region and as far away as Prince Edward Island.
This wonderful response to the call for submissions has allowed the gallery to honour its mission of building awareness and accessibility of contemporary visual arts to the widest possible audience, supporting and advancing the careers of local artists and contributing to the cultural life of Northumberland County. Expanding the show beyond the local community adds even more diversity to the exhibit.
All the members know how applying to a juried show can be a nerve-wracking affair — submitting carefully crafted pieces one hopes will meet the criteria and vision of the juror, an the holding one's breath. The pieces eventually chosen must fit together in some way to create a cohesive experience and presentation. Despite the occasional disappointment of having work declined for a show, most applicants find that it is a worthwhile process in their evolution as artists.
Those whose pieces were selected by Campbell for the Colborne Gallery Juried Show have responded with enthusiasm to the opportunity to have their work shown in this light-filled heritage building at 51 King St. E. The gallery applauds all of the applicants for taking a chance on submitting their work, and appreciates the support this has provided for the gallery.
One of the goals for a juried show was to share this charming location and exceptional exhibition space. Many might make a first visit there in support of a friend or family member who submitted to the show. Once you’ve visited you’re sure to become a regular, joining the dedicated group of supporters who attend the gallery's lively opening receptions or stopping by on a visit to Colborne.
The gallery is honoured to work in partnership with Cramahe Township and, during the opening reception, a best-in-show award will be presented by Mayor Marc Coombs, a strong supporter of the gallery’s activities. Several additional awards will also be presented, sponsored by Cree in Colborne, The Framed View in Cobourg and Ganaraska Framing in Port Hope.
The opening reception runs from 2 to 4 p.m. July 13, offering a chance to meet the guest artists and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere at the gallery.
The exhibit runs through August 18. Hours are Thursday through Sunday, noon to 5 p.m..
For more information, visit www.thecolborneartgallery.ca.