One of Vancouver Island’s most unique cultural events will be taking place on Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 8-9 at Marina Park in Comox. Now in its 13th year, the Originals Only Art Show has become one of the many events that helps make the Comox Valley a cultural hotspot.
What differs from other outdoor shows and festivals is the fact that Originals Only focuses entirely on the traditional forms of fine art: painting and sculpture. All of the artists participating in the show have made a commitment to display only original works of art in order to highlight the importance fine art plays in defining communities.
These artists cover a broad spectrum of styles, genres and experience. One of the features the show organizers promote is the fact that visitors can find artists who have gained international recognition set up next to an artist who is just embarking on their artistic journey.
Do you know the difference between abstract and impressionism, contemporary and realistic? Here’s your opportunity to find out as art education plays a key role in the show. Visitors will have the opportunity to compare and learn more about the different styles that artists employ to express themselves or to help people focus on the beauty that surrounds them.
For many of the artists themselves it is also a learning experience as it provides those who are just emerging onto the art scene with the opportunity to get some much valued tips and tricks from the more mature and established artists.
There’s an old axiom that states there may be more to it than meets the eye. In the case of the Originals Only Show this is close to the truth as each work of art is a reflection of the artists vision of the subject matter. Visiting the show provides a terrific opportunity to meet the artists in person, find out why they have chosen a particular subject or style, and learn more about their chosen medium.
With the number of artists participating this year, with each of them having their own display space there will be literally thousands of original works on display. From watercolours to acrylics, oils to pastels, stone to wood, the works cover a broad spectrum of all the materials that go into making a piece of art.
The show itself has been supported by the Town of Comox through the recreation department for the past 13 years.
“This has been very important to us as a group of artists,” said Joe Smith, one of the organizers. “It not only shows the Town’s commitment to supporting the arts but helps position the Town as a vibrant destination for both tourists, residents and potential newcomers to set up homes or businesses.”
The show is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Admission is free. For further information about the show and to see a sampling of the artists’ work that will be on display, visit the show’s website at www.originalsonly.ca
