An art show on Gabriola is challenging artists on a dimensional level.
The show, Stretched, invites artists to work on an unlikely sized canvas to create a piece of art. Artists will create a piece on a 15- by 91-centimetre canvas. The idea is a “different incarnation” on a previous art exhibit held on Gabriola island, said Gwen Spinks, organizer.
Previously artists were challenged to work on a 30 by 30cm frame.
“I love the idea of it being one size canvas,” said Spinks, adding usually the challenge comes from the need to adhere to a specific theme.
The show, being held at the Gabriola Women’s Institute Hall Friday to Sunday (Jan. 15-17) features 36 artists, five of whom are teenagers, and 46 canvases. Some artists have collaborated on a piece such as artists Joke Mensik and Kimm Nightingale.
“All the artists were just amazing and eager to apply,” said Spinks.
The show features artists from a variety of backgrounds including fabric artists, three dimensional artists and painters.
“I love these projects. It could be a lot bigger,” said Spinks, who added there were several more artists interested in participating in the show, but she had to restrict it because of space.
The Women’s Institute Hall is the new home of the Gabriola Arts Council.
“I really wanted to use the space to introduce the space to Gabriola and Vancouver Island as an arts space,” said Spinks.
Pieces will be sold for $225, except the work by the teens. Artists receive 80 per cent of sales and Spinks receives 20 per cent to cover costs. Of that 20 per cent she is donating five per cent to the Gabriola Arts Council.
Stretched opens Friday (Jan. 15) 7-9 p.m. The show runs Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
arts@nanaimobulletin.com
