CORNWALL, Ontario – While The Art Gallery of Cornwall (TAG) has been taking a well-deserved summer break, some new tenants have filled the space with an abundant share of arts and culture.
“We were given the opportunity to keep the gallery open during the time that the curator, was away on holiday, said Linda Geisel , co-vice chair, Focus Arts Association. “We were ecstatic.”
Since early in July, Focus Arts’ “Summer in the City” exhibition, featuring 77 original mixed media pieces (carving soapstone, water colour, acrylic, oil, batik as well as pastel, Chinese ink and photography), has adorned the walls at the downtown gallery.
Adding another dimension to the exhibit, workshops were held throughout the month including introductions to carving, watercolour, drawing, tile painting and graffiti (this Friday). A yoga class will be held on Wednesday.
A moving presentation on the history of the aboriginal people in Canada titled “Kairos’ Blanket Exercise”, facilitated by Jennifer Deschamps, a curriculum consultant in Aboriginal Education from the Catholic District School Board of Eastern Ontario, added a cultural aspect to the exhibit.
As well, over the three weekends, local musicians have participated with their own brand of art, by adding a soundtrack to the event, with performances outside the gallery.
“Focus art is an association of people who are mainly visual artists, but also arts students and lovers of art, who don’t really paint, but just want to be surrounded by visual arts to be inspired,” explained Julia Lucio, co-vice chair, who as a graphic designer says that she has been challenged out of her comfort zone with her participation in the group.
“It’s a group to inspire and encourage,” she said. “We meet every month for workshops on new things and techniques.”
Art lovers can take a piece of the event home with them, by visiting the onsite boutique. Exhibit pieces are also available for purchase.
“Summer in the City” runs until July 26, at The Art Gallery of Cornwall (TAG). The public is encouraged to come in and vote for the People’s Choice, in three different categories, until Wednesday. For further information, or to become a member, visit www.focusartonline.org.
