The Warm Zone is an Abbotsford branch under the Women’s Resource Society of the Fraser Valley. Ever since its opening, the Warm Zone has provided Abbotsford with a shelter for women who seek sanctuary. Recently, they’ve been put under the spotlight at the Abbotsford Reach Art Gallery with an exhibition of masks. “These masks represent the Warm Zone because everyone has a mask,” said Michel Giordano, Warm Zone coordinator. This project was important to the Warm Zone, as it displays their stance in the community by displaying work alongside many of the Fraser Valley’s finest artists. Each mask was individually made by the women at the Warm Zone. Through art, these women have metaphorically expressed and demonstrated their past. Asked how long the process took, Giordano said, “Each woman takes a different time. Some women worked on their masks for months … and others in one sitting.” “Art didn’t always happen here,” said Giordano, adding that the project reflects importance and innovation for all of those who attend or serve at the Warm Zone. This project marks more than art on the wall for the Warm Zone. It progresses the facility to new heights by placing it into the public eye in a fashion that expresses who the women are.Visit the Reach to witness the Warm Zone’s next big step into the community alongside five of the other exhibits that are on display.
Daniel Liebe is a Grade 12 Robert Bateman student, and an Abby News contributor.
